Senate President Calls for More Legislative Exchange Programmes, Invites UK Investors to Explore Nigeria’s Economic Opportunities
President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called for stronger legislative cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, urging both countries to expand parliamentary exchanges and deepen their longstanding bilateral relationship.
Akpabio made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Peter Vowles, at his office.
The Senate President said Nigeria and the UK shared historical, economic and diplomatic ties that could serve as a foundation for greater collaboration between the National Assembly and the British Parliament.
He noted that Nigerian lawmakers could benefit from more structured exchange programmes, which would allow them to learn from the British parliamentary system and strengthen legislative capacity.
Akpabio disclosed that parliamentary exchanges were already taking place, with British lawmakers occasionally visiting Nigeria to observe proceedings, while Nigerian National Assembly committees had also visited the House of Lords and House of Commons.
He called for more regular engagements to improve institutional cooperation and strengthen relations between the two legislatures.
The Senate President also commended King Charles III for the hospitality extended to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and members of his delegation during their recent state visit to the United Kingdom.
He described Nigeria as strategically important to Africa’s economy and security, stressing the need for both countries to sustain and expand their relationship.
Akpabio Invites UK Investors to Nigeria
Beyond legislative cooperation, Akpabio urged British investors to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s oil, mining and other economic sectors.
He asked the British High Commissioner to communicate to potential investors that Nigeria offered opportunities for profitable investments, citing improvements in the business environment and the ability of investors to repatriate their funds.
According to Akpabio, stronger investment partnerships could support economic growth and deepen commercial relations between the two countries.
In his response, Vowles said the British government remained committed to strengthening its relationship with Nigeria and identifying new areas of cooperation.
He reaffirmed the UK’s longstanding partnership with Nigeria’s National Assembly and pledged continued support for both chambers where collaboration was needed.
The meeting highlighted the shared interest of Nigeria and the United Kingdom in expanding parliamentary cooperation, strengthening diplomatic relations and encouraging investment to support economic development.