By Muhammad Mamman
The United Kingdom has praised President Bola Tinubu’s ambitious economic and trade reforms, hailing them as vital steps towards unlocking Nigeria’s vast potential for growth. British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, delivered the commendation during a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the State House in Abuja on Monday.
Montgomery lauded the reforms as courageous and essential, noting their potential to foster stronger trade and investment ties between the UK and Nigeria. He also expressed admiration for the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), describing it as a powerful platform for advancing women’s empowerment in education, health, and humanitarian efforts.
The envoy highlighted the UK’s keen interest in Nigeria’s ongoing constitutional review, particularly proposals to reserve special seats for women in the National Assembly. In response, Senator Tinubu reaffirmed the government’s dedication to addressing Nigerians’ needs through the RHI, aligning with President Tinubu’s transformative agenda.
“We can achieve great things together if we show genuine care,” she said. “The RHI is empowering women in the informal sector, directly transforming their lives.”
Addressing concerns about the declining number of women in the National Assembly, the First Lady pledged to champion efforts to boost female representation. “We must identify and support capable women who can truly represent us and deliver results,” she emphasised, calling for greater awareness among women.
The British Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Lever, accompanied Montgomery during the visit, underscoring the UK’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Nigeria.
