The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery has reiterated the commitment of United Kingdom (UK) to strengthening and advancing bilateral relations with Nigeria in the areas of health, education, and security.
Speaking at a celebration of the 75th birthday of King Charles III of Great Britain and Northern Ireland at his residence in Abuja, Montgomery said that Nigeria and the UK have exceptionally strong people-to-people links and share interests in a wide range of areas, including defense and security, trade and investment, justice and home affairs, development cooperation, and government effectiveness.
“Nigeria really matters to the UK. We share history, we share interests in defense and security, trade and investment, and our justice and home affairs.
“We’ve worked together on development/cooperation, on health, education, livelihoods, and government effectiveness.
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“We share our views and negotiate many foreign policy challenges and in many international organisations,” Montgomery said.
He also noted that the UK has made four ministerial visits to Nigeria during his first six months as high commissioner, which demonstrates the UK’s strong commitment to working with Nigeria in partnership.
“So we’ve got a really strong relationship and it’s my job as British High Commissioner to build and strengthen it,” he said.
Montgomery urged all Nigerian citizens to stay strong, especially in the face of the current global economic challenges and inflation.
He expressed his optimism for Nigeria’s future, saying that if the new administration successfully implements its reforms, there will be a higher growth path and everything will be possible in terms of people’s livelihoods and the revenues necessary for services across the country.
The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, who was also present at the ceremony, congratulated King Charles III on his 75th birthday and expressed his hope for stronger relations between the two countries during his reign.
His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III Olu of Warri also wished the king long life and good health and expressed his belief that Nigeria and the UK will build further relationships on the solid foundation of transparency, equity, education, trade, and other mutually beneficial platforms during his reign.
(NAN)