Baxter: Nigeria-UK Trade Now £7.5bn, Bilateral Trade Priority for Both Countries
The trade volume between Nigeria and the United Kingdom has soared to £7.5 billion, as revealed by Jonny Baxter, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Nigeria. Speaking at the launch of Westerfield College’s UK branch in Lagos, Baxter emphasized the growing economic ties between the two countries, noting that bilateral trade is a priority for both the UK and Nigeria. He expressed pride in Nigeria’s role in the UK’s economic growth, highlighting trade as a key aspect of their vibrant and evolving relationship.
Baxter also pointed out that trade is not only beneficial for UK businesses entering Nigeria but also for Nigerian companies seeking to establish themselves in the UK. He highlighted sectors such as energy, financial services, infrastructure, and education where UK businesses have made significant inroads in Nigeria. At the same time, Baxter emphasized the importance of Nigerian businesses expanding into the UK to foster mutual growth, bringing in new technologies and job opportunities while benefiting from a dynamic business environment.
Investment between the UK and Nigeria offers wide-ranging benefits, including increased competition, the introduction of new technology, and job creation in both countries. Baxter referred to this exchange of ideas and resources as crucial for fostering growth and prosperity in both nations. He expressed his excitement for the launch of Westerfield UK as a significant milestone in the deepening educational and economic links between the two countries.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, praised Westerfield College’s entrance into the UK education market. Sanwo-Olu described the new campus as a bridge connecting cultures, ideas, and aspirations, marking an important step for Nigerian education on the global stage. He highlighted the potential for strengthening international ties and fostering educational collaborations through this new development.
The Managing Director of Westerfield College, Michael Dosunmu, shared the institution’s ambitious plans for global expansion. Founded in Nigeria in 2011, Westerfield College has been preparing for its UK expansion over the past four years. Dosunmu expressed that the goal of the college’s international growth is not for financial gain, but to create a lasting impact and raise Nigeria’s profile globally. The UK campus is set to open in July, with plans for a summer program aimed at introducing the new academic offerings.
Source: THIS DAY