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

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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)

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

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By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

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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.

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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.

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

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

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“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.”

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

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

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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.

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

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

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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.

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

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

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

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