Nigerian-born UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Kemi Badenoch, has arrived Nigeria is embarking on a three-day visit to Nigeria.
This journey, commencing on February 11, 2024, aims to fortify the trade and investment partnerships between the two nations. Accompanied by Helen Grant, the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Badenoch will engage with federal and state government officials, as well as British and Nigerian business leaders and investors.
As the 39th largest trading partner of the UK, Nigeria boasts a total trade figure of £7 billion in goods and services, as underscored by Jonny Baxter, head of the UK Mission to Nigeria. Richard Montgomery, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, accentuated the UK’s dedication to assisting Nigeria in unlocking new investment opportunities.
During her visit, Badenoch will engage with a diverse array of stakeholders. These include federal and state government officials, British and Nigerian business leaders, and investors. The discussions will revolve around the existing and prospective investment and trade activities in sectors like education, infrastructure, and energy.
In 2022 while she was vying for the post of Prime Minister of the UK, she had lambested Nigerian politicians accusing them of looting the the country.
“I grew up in Nigeria, and I saw first hand what happens when politicians are in it for themselves, when they use public money as their private piggy bank, when they promise the earth and pollute not just the air, but the whole political atmosphere with their failure to serve others. I saw what socialism means for millions: poverty and broken dreams.”