Tinubu pushes Starmer for beefed-up trade, anti-terror pact amid global crisis

Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu shake hands during their meeting at 10 Downing Street central London on March 19, 2026, on the second day of a two-day State Visit to the United Kingdom by Nigeria’s President. (Photo by Kin Cheung / POOL / AFP)

—Urges deeper economic bonds, joint strikes on Sahel terror, climate woes
— As British PM calls visit historic, vows to supercharge bilateral ties

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA — PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu on Thursday demanded a rock-solid economic and security alliance between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, UK, pushing for expanded trade and unified action against mounting global threats.

In a high-stakes meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, Tinubu called to supercharge existing trade deals and forge broader economic links benefiting both nations.

“We need to nurture the trade agreement and stimulate more economic relationships that will build our two nations,” Tinubu declared.

He spotlighted Nigeria’s bold economic reforms to steady the ship amid global turbulence, insisting the challenges hit everyone hard.

“Nigeria is undergoing a very strong reform of the economy, and beyond the volatility, what we face is no small challenge,” he said. “The entire world is challenged—Nigeria isn’t immune, just as Britain isn’t.”

Tinubu said he prioritized citizens’ welfare, urging joint moves to tame instability and boost livelihoods.

“My concern is the economy and people’s welfare, and how we work together to improve lives while mitigating volatility,” he added.

He flagged Africa’s escalating security nightmares—Sahel terrorism, climate-fueled conflicts, and socio-economic strains—as threats Nigeria, West Africa’s giant, must confront head-on.

“We’re challenged by terrorism from the Sahel, plus conflicts from climate change and other pressures,” Tinubu noted.

He expressed optimism that the concrete bilateral talks would fast-track UK-Nigeria friendship.

Starmer hailed the visit as historic—the UK’s first inward state visit in 37 years—and celebrated deep-rooted ties via shared history and vibrant people-to-people links.

“Our long, shared history is obvious and valued, as is the people-to-people contact that enriches us,” Starmer said.

He praised ongoing UK-Nigeria teamwork in economy, defense, and security, framing the summit as a launchpad to elevate it all.

“We do vital work on economy, defense, and security—but today we take it to another level with new agreements,” he affirmed.