By Seun Ibiyemi
Nigeria and the United Kingdom are set to formalise a £746 million financing agreement aimed at upgrading key maritime infrastructure at the Lagos Port Complex (Apapa Quays) and Tin Can Island Port Complex, as President Bola Tinubu begins a historic state visit to the UK.
The deal, to be signed between UK Export Finance, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Federal Ministry of Finance Nigeria, is expected to support the rehabilitation and modernisation of the two major ports, which serve as critical gateways for Nigeria’s international trade.
A statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, said the agreement would be one of the key highlights of the visit, which underscores efforts to deepen economic cooperation between both countries.
President Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, departed Abuja on Tuesday for the visit at the invitation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
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The Nigerian leader will be hosted at Windsor Castle from March 18 to 19, marking the first state visit by a Nigerian president to the UK in 37 years and the first time a Nigerian leader will be received by a British monarch at the historic residence.
Beyond the port financing deal, the visit is expected to strengthen bilateral ties between Nigeria and the UK, with discussions covering immigration, trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
A series of Memoranda of Understanding are also expected to be signed during the visit.
President Tinubu is scheduled to hold talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, where both leaders will explore avenues to expand economic and diplomatic relations.
Activities lined up for the visit include a state banquet hosted by the Royal Family, a special exhibition of Nigerian-related items from the Royal Collection, and engagements with organisations promoting interfaith dialogue.
The President will also attend the Nigerian Modernism exhibition showcasing contemporary arts and culture, as well as a reception with business leaders and members of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK.
Members of the President’s delegation include Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alongside key cabinet officials such as Lateef Fagbemi, Dele Alake, Mohammed Idris, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Wale Edun, and Jumoke Oduwole.
Others include Hannatu Musawa, Bosun Tijjani, Christopher Musa, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Mohammed Mohammed.
The statement added that President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria at the end of the visit.
