Tinubu’s UK visit to boost economy, secure £746m port deal — Lagos APC

2026-03-18 - 13:45

By Olasunkanmi Akoni The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said the official visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom will strengthen Nigeria’s economic prospects and facilitate a £746 million port financing agreement. In a statement on Wednesday, the party’s spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, noted that the visit is expected to enhance economic diplomacy and support critical infrastructure development, particularly in the maritime sector. According to the APC, the trip will witness and advance a £746 million financing deal involving UK Export Finance, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and the Federal Ministry of Finance for the rehabilitation of major ports in the country. The agreement will focus on the refurbishment of two key facilities—the Lagos Port Complex (Apapa Quays) and the Tin Can Island Port Complex—aimed at modernising port infrastructure and improving trade efficiency. The party described the initiative as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s position as a maritime hub in West Africa, while boosting economic growth. It added that the visit underscores the administration’s commitment to expanding international partnerships in line with its economic reform agenda. “The visit provides an important platform for high-level engagements with government officials, investors, and development partners on issues critical to Nigeria’s growth, including infrastructure development, energy transition, technology transfer, education, security collaboration, and opportunities for Nigerian businesses in global markets,” the statement read. The Lagos APC further noted that the United Kingdom remains a longstanding economic ally and key development partner to Nigeria. It expressed optimism that outcomes from the visit would attract foreign direct investment, strengthen bilateral trade relations, and create employment opportunities for Nigerians. The party also said President Tinubu’s diplomatic outreach reflects his track record of leveraging international partnerships for development, recalling his tenure as Governor of Lagos State. It urged Nigerians to view the visit within the broader context of nation-building and economic diplomacy, stressing that strategic global engagement is essential for long-term national prosperity. The APC expressed confidence that the visit would further enhance Nigeria’s economic outlook and global standing.