NATIONAL NATIONAL News

UK Minister, Vicky Ford To Visit Nigeria For The First Time

Written by Bunmi Abdulraheem

The UK’s Minister for Africa, Latin America & Caribbean, Vicky Ford, will visit Nigeria this week in her first visit to the country.

A statement by the British High commission to Nigeria says the visit follows the UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership Dialogue in London earlier this month, at which the UK and Nigeria agreed to strengthen cooperation in a range of areas including military cooperation, counter terrorism, civilian policing, protecting human rights and recognising the important role of women in achieving sustainable peace.

It says the visit will take forward ongoing efforts by both countries to build on the UK Nigeria partnership and strengthen strong security, anti-corruption and economic ties.

While in Nigeria, Minister Vicky Ford, will have meetings with the Federal Government of Nigeria, State Governors as well as faith leaders, civil society and business leaders.

The Minister looks forward to announcing millions of pounds of new UK investments including support of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises.

She will also sign MoU related to anti-corruption, which will further strengthen the UK-Nigeria partnership in this area.

The minister will also promote efforts to educate girls, empower women and end gender based violence and address humanitarian needs in the North-East .

RN