RismadarVoice Reporters, June 24, 2026
The United Kingdom has commended the economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing Nigeria’s ongoing economic recovery as evidence that difficult but necessary policy decisions can deliver positive outcomes.
Speaking at the fourth UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP4) Dialogue in Abuja, the United Kingdom’s National Security Adviser, Jonathan Powell, said Nigeria’s recent economic progress reflects the impact of reforms designed to strengthen the country’s long-term economic prospects.
According to Powell, while the measures adopted by the government have involved significant challenges, emerging indicators suggest that the reforms are beginning to produce meaningful results.
He described Nigeria as a major force on the African continent and emphasised its growing strategic importance in regional and global affairs.
Powell noted that Nigeria remains the United Kingdom’s most important partner in Africa, adding that its influence and relevance are expected to continue expanding in the years ahead.
The British official reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria through what he described as a partnership based on mutual respect, shared interests, and practical outcomes.
He also praised Nigeria’s role in promoting stability across Africa and commended the efforts of its security agencies in addressing evolving security threats.
In his remarks, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to upholding democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law while tackling security challenges.
Ribadu warned that future security threats would increasingly emerge from the digital space, citing cybercrime, artificial intelligence-driven risks, and illicit financial networks as growing concerns for governments worldwide.
He stressed the importance of enhanced international cooperation, intelligence-sharing, and investment in technology and innovation to effectively address emerging threats.
The National Security Adviser also acknowledged the United Kingdom’s support in areas such as cybersecurity and information resilience, describing the partnership as critical in combating misinformation and protecting national security.
According to Ribadu, the UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership, established in 2022, has evolved into a comprehensive framework covering counterterrorism, cybersecurity, maritime security, crisis management, and intelligence collaboration.
He stated that previous engagements under the partnership have strengthened Nigeria’s institutional capabilities and improved operational effectiveness in several strategic areas.
Ribadu further reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working closely with international partners to advance regional peace, democratic governance, and collective security.
He noted that the latest dialogue provides an opportunity for both countries to build on existing achievements and expand cooperation in addressing shared security and development challenges.
