EXCLUSIVE: UK Commends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms, Calls Nigeria an African Superpower

The United Kingdom has commended the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying the measures are beginning to deliver visible results despite the challenges associated with their implementation.

Speaking at the 4th UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP4) dialogue in Abuja, UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell described Nigeria’s economic progress as a success story that demonstrates the value of difficult but necessary policy decisions.

Powell said the reforms are contributing to economic recovery and growth, adding that Nigeria’s influence on the African continent continues to expand.

He described the country as an African superpower and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria.

According to him, Nigeria remains the United Kingdom’s most important partner in Africa and plays a crucial role in promoting regional stability and addressing security challenges across the continent.

Also speaking at the event, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu stressed the Federal Government’s commitment to democratic governance, human rights and the rule of law in tackling insecurity.

Ribadu warned that emerging threats such as cybercrime, artificial intelligence misuse and illicit financial networks are reshaping the global security environment.

He called for deeper international cooperation, improved intelligence-sharing and greater investment in technology to address these challenges.

He also welcomed the UK’s support in cybersecurity and information resilience, noting that collaboration between both countries has expanded significantly since the launch of the UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership in 2022.

According to Ribadu, the partnership has strengthened cooperation in areas including counterterrorism, cybersecurity, maritime security, crisis response and intelligence sharing, while improving Nigeria’s institutional and operational capabilities.