The discussions reaffirmed the strong relationship between Nigeria and the UK, with commitments made across a range of priority areas of mutual interest.

The commendable collaboration between the 2 nations on migration and countering criminality in all its forms was acknowledged.

In this spirit of collaboration, there was agreement to raise awareness within each country of our respective internal systems and cultures.

Regarding serious and organised crime, Nigeria and the UK expressed mutual appreciation for ongoing efforts to prevent vulnerable young people from being engaged in criminality, intercepting and disrupting organised crime groups trafficking people and illicit commodities, as well as new opportunities to work together to combat online fraud.

Both parties recognised the improved engagement and information sharing between our respective governments and high commissions.

They committed to proactively engage with relevant authorities to resolve outstanding issues as well as promoting their joint work to the public.

The significance of returning nationals with no right to remain in each other’s territories was mutually agreed, facilitated by the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding on Migration Partnership.

Both sides (UK-Nigeria) pledged to explore a deeper migration partnership and welcomed progress towards a criminal record data-sharing arrangement through technical working groups, the latest of which took place on 20 March 2024.

This work will form the foundations for a deeper relationship on criminal records data sharing.

The collaborative efforts of Nigeria and the UK on these issues underscore our shared commitment to tackling crime and destabilising factors directly, highlighting the depth of the relationship between the 2 countries.

Both nations committed to further meetings to assess progress against the commitments made ahead of the next annual talks and ongoing regular engagement between the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office in London.

The next annual Migration, Justice, and Home Affairs talks, hosted by Nigeria, will take place in 2025 and will include contributions and participation from all relevant ministries, departments, and agencies from Nigeria and the UK.

Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, said:

“I am pleased that the UK/Nigeria partnership continues to grow, including on important issues of migration and countering criminality in all its forms.

“Last week we reaffirmed our commitment to work closely together to disrupt organised crime groups who facilitate illicit trafficking, tackle illegal migration, and ensure those with legitimate travel continue to visit our respective countries. 

“We look forward to building our partnership further on areas of mutual interest and ultimately making our countries safer for citizens.”

“As security challenges around the world grow, it has become increasingly crucial to support our allies to uphold regional and international peace.

“The UK reaffirmed our commitment to Nigeria, building on progress made since the last UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership dialogue, from tackling-terrorism and countering violent extremism to defending against cyber-attacks.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to the Government of Nigeria for their partnership and look forward to continuing to deep our cooperation across our Security and Defence Partnership”

The full communique is available via this link.

During the two-day visit, the British High Commissioner visited Siminalayi Fubara, the Rivers State Governor, and paid his respects to Sir Dr Peter Odili, the former State Governor.

They discussed the strong economic partnership that has existed between Rivers State and the UK, recent developments and future opportunities.

The High Commissioner also visited Shell Nigeria and Indorama at their operational bases.

Discussions focused on the opportunities for growth and improvements in the extraction and manufacturing sections.

He sought their views on efforts to advance UK investment in the state, and possible areas of partnerships to help boost economic growth and job creation.

The High Commissioner met with NGOs and Nigerian government actors working on oil clean up and representatives of civil society organisations, operating across rivers State and the wider Niger Delta.

Stakeholders gave a run down on the implementation of their programmes and some of the great opportunities for the state, to lead on efforts to combat environmental damage, climate change and improve sustainable livelihoods.

At the end of the visit, the British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery, said:

“Rivers State is particularly important as a large economy, with strong assets and institutions, important for Nigeria’s national economy.

“My visit was a good opportunity to engage and interact with key players.

“I came to listen and learn about recent developments, and gather insights about some of our UK-Nigeria economic partnerships: the impact they have made so far, and the potential for more.

“We very much want to continue developing these bonds – both with governments and civil society – to enhance prosperity within the region.”

Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner, visited Enugu State between the 27th and 28th of June for high-level discussions with the state governor and key stakeholders in the state government, civil society, business and traditional leaders.

During the two-day visit, the High Commissioner visited Dr. Peter Mbah, the Enugu State Governor.

They discussed the 20 years partnership that had existed between Enugu state and the then UK’s Department for International Development, now known as the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.

They also explored areas of better collaboration on attracting investment, boosting trade and creating more economic opportunities.

During his stay in Enugu, the High Commissioner met with the Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council and Chairman Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu.

Igwe Agubuzu briefed the High Commissioner on efforts of traditional institutions in the South East and their role as bridge builders and guardians of peace, order, security and welfare of the people of Enugu State.

In further discussions, High Commissioner Richard Montgomery met with the President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

Chief Iwuanyanwu and other members of the Ohaneze Ndigbo shared their views on the investment opportunities and business environment in the South East as well as the potential of the agricultural sector to create more opportunities for the people of the region.

The High Commissioner also called on the former Enugu State Governor, Sullivan Chime.  They discussed the current trends in Nigerian politics, geopolitics and the opportunities in the South East.

In Enugu, the High Commissioner met with representatives of civil society organisations who gave a run down on some of the opportunities and challenges in the state. He emphasised how the challenges can only be addressed through strong and open dialogue between the state and civil society.

In advancing indigenous businesses, High Commissioner Richard Montgomery visited the Innoson Plant in Enugu where the management team took him on a tour of around their premises.

At the end of the visit, the British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery, said:

“Being here in Enugu has helped me see first-hand the creative energy and enterprising spirit of its people. The UK is in full support of all efforts to bring economic prosperity to all of Nigeria including Enugu State. I hope we can take forward a range of work to boost our partnership with the state.”