The federal government and the United Kingdom have signed eight new agreements worth approximately N589 billion (£272.6 million). These agreements focus on improving governance, climate change, education, health, and the economy.
The agreements were signed in Abuja by Senator Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, and Ms. Cynthia Rowe, the UK’s Charge d’Affaires. This partnership aims to address crucial areas and enhance cooperation between the two countries.
Senator Bagudu praised the UK for its support, calling it a sign of strong friendship. He emphasized the importance of these agreements amid global economic challenges, noting that both Nigeria and the UK are facing tough economic conditions.
Bagudu highlighted that the agreements would tackle global issues, stating that health, climate change, and governance are interconnected and affect multiple countries.
He also touched upon recent economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, acknowledging they have caused some discomfort but are part of a strategy for long-term stability and growth.
The agreements recognize that countries often need external support to meet developmental needs. Nigeria is hopeful that these partnerships will help overcome challenges.
Ms. Rowe expressed sympathy for the recent floods in Nigeria and praised the ongoing cooperation between the UK and Nigeria. She emphasized that the new agreements build on over £1 billion previously invested in various programs across Nigeria. The UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) has long been involved in Nigeria’s development, focusing on human development, conflict resolution, and economic transformation.
The agreements have four main objectives: ensuring reliable investment, empowering women and girls, providing emergency support, and promoting sustainable economic growth. They aim to help Nigeria become more stable, inclusive, and prosperous.
Key agreements include:
• Human Assistance and Resilience Program (HARP): N324 billion (£150 million) to provide humanitarian aid in Northeast Nigeria.
• Nigeria Governance and Climate Change Programme (NGCP): N84 billion (£83.8 million) to address climate and governance issues.
• Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING): N82 billion (£38 million) to reduce conflict and improve climate resilience in Northern Nigeria.
• Equipment Support for Health Training Institutions (ESHTI): N8.3 billion (£3.8 million) for health training facilities.
• Climate Resilient Infrastructure for Basic Services (CRIBS): N41 billion (£19 million) to develop infrastructure that withstands climate change.
• Building Resilience in Nigeria’s Nutrition Stockpile (BRINNS): N26 billion (£12 million) to enhance nutrition security.
• Strengthening Humanitarian Access in Nigeria (SHAN): N24 billion (£11 million) to improve humanitarian aid access.
• Manufacture Africa: N151 billion (£70 million) to support economic transformation and job creation in Africa.
These agreements mark a significant step in enhancing the UK-Nigeria partnership and addressing key challenges facing Nigeria.
