In a landmark diplomatic engagement, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer welcomed Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Downing Street, cementing a new era of bilateral cooperation. The centerpiece of this historic state visit—the first by a West African leader in 37 years—is a comprehensive £746 million agreement to redevelop Nigeria’s critical port infrastructure.
The deal includes a record-breaking £70 million contract for British Steel to supply 120,000 tonnes of steel for the refurbishment of Lagos Port Complex and TinCan Island Port Complex. This represents the largest export contract ever secured by British Steel with support from UK Export Finance (UKEF). The financing arrangement requires that at least 20% of supplier contracts be awarded to UK firms, directing approximately £236 million to British businesses.
The diplomatic festivities included a spectacular state banquet at Windsor Castle hosted by King Charles III, who praised the enduring strength of UK-Nigeria relations. President Tinubu’s visit carried additional historical significance as the first by a Muslim leader during Ramadan in nearly a century. Windsor Castle accommodated religious observances by providing dedicated prayer spaces and adjusting traditional events to respect fasting practices.
Beyond economic matters, the leaders addressed pressing security concerns following recent suicide bombings in Nigeria’s Borno state that killed 23 people and injured 108. Both parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore future trade and investment opportunities while committing to collaborate on counterterrorism efforts and climate change challenges.
Trade Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized that the agreement would reinforce British Steel’s global expertise while supporting jobs in Scunthorpe. Nigerian Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola stated the development would solidify Nigeria’s position as a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa.
The visit included ceremonial activities such as wreath-laying at Westminster Abbey’s Grave of the Unknown Warrior and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s engagement with religious leaders at Lambeth Palace.