Keir Starmer meets Nigerian President Tinubu as record steel deal agreed

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer welcomed Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Downing Street, where the two leaders finalized a landmark agreement involving the supply of steel. This deal marks a significant collaboration between the UK and Nigeria, with British Steel committing to provide 120,000 tonnes of steel intended for the renovation of two key ports located in Lagos. The contract’s total value is set at £70 million.

Describing the Nigerian president’s visit as “historic,” Sir Keir highlighted the significance of this being the first state visit from a West African head of state in 37 years. Accompanying the diplomatic engagements, King Charles hosted an elaborate state banquet at Windsor Castle in honor of President Tinubu and the first lady. During the event, the King emphasized the deep and enduring relationship that links the two countries.

Throughout the visit, discussions between the UK and Nigeria have focused on advancing trade and economic ties, while also addressing pressing issues like terrorism and climate change. A Memorandum of Understanding is scheduled to be signed, aiming to pave the way for future trade and investment ventures. It is worth noting that a substantial £746 million deal is already in place for the redevelopment of Lagos Port Complex and TinCan Island Port Complex, backed by UK government export credit guarantees.

UK Export Finance (UKEF) has guaranteed loans for the project, stipulating that a minimum of 20% of all contracts must involve UK-based suppliers. This policy will channel at least £236 million toward British companies, including £70 million specifically allocated for British Steel—the largest export ever supported by UKEF. Trade Secretary Peter Kyle remarked that this agreement would “reinforce British Steel’s world-class expertise while supporting jobs and growth in Scunthorpe.” Meanwhile, Nigerian Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola stated that these developments would “strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading maritime hub in west and central Africa.”

The state visit also carried additional historic significance, as it marked the first time in nearly 100 years that a Muslim leader visited the UK during Ramadan. To accommodate President Tinubu’s religious observance, special arrangements were made during the state banquet at Windsor Castle, including the provision of a prayer room. Moreover, the King’s usual lunch event was not held, respecting the president’s fasting. On a related note, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, who practices Christianity, visited Lambeth Palace—the residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

This diplomatic engagement took place against a backdrop of heightened tensions in Nigeria. The northeastern state of Borno recently experienced multiple suspected suicide bombings, causing the deaths of at least 23 individuals and injuries to 108 others. The attacks have been attributed to Boko Haram militants, underscoring the security challenges facing the Nigerian government amid its ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships

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