UK Expresses Interest In Fortifying Ties With Nigeria

          

The UK Minister for Africa, Mr Mark Simmonds says the United Kingdom is interested in fortifying ties with Nigeria in all sectors of her economy to enhance Nigeria’s developmental growth in line with its new dawn after 100 years of existence.
Mr Simmons, who is in Nigeria to take part in the centenary celebrations, was speaking at the ground breaking of the  state of the art 28 million pounds Foreign Common Wealth office in Abuja, a UK High Commission hub he says will be the largest investment to be made by the foreign office globally.
Mr Simmons said the UK government places high premium on the ties with Nigeria and is set to play significant roles in its political and economic growth as well as in employment generation and education.
Mr Simmonds, will deliver a message from  Queen Elizabeth II during Nigeria’s centenary celebrations this week, the country’s Foreign Government Office said on Monday.
In a  statement issued in Abuja, Mr. Simmonds arrived in Nigeria on Monday to join President Goodluck Jonathan and other dignitaries to celebrate 100 years of Nigeria as a nation.
“He is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech in which he will address the potentials for Africa and Nigeria’s future,” it said.
The minister’s four-day programme in Nigeria includes a visit to Lagos and Port Harcourt to discuss opportunities and challenges in the Niger Delta.
“I am excited to be making my second visit to Nigeria and I am looking forward to representing the British Government at the 100 years celebrations.
“I bring with me the best wishes of the British people, including a message from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth,” Mr. Simmonds said in the statement.