UK will strengthen partnership with Nigeria, says foreign secretary

David Lammy, UK foreign secretary, says Britain and Nigeria have a “flourishing relationship” that should be “nurtured and strengthened”. 

Lammy spoke in Lagos on November 3 during a ‘Creatives and Culture Reception’ organised in his honour.

The event brought together stakeholders in the art and creative sectors.

After a brief meeting with Hannatu Musawa, Nigeria’s minister of art, culture and creative economy, Lammy addressed the overflow on the courtyard of the British high commissioner’s lodge in Ikoyi.

“I have sampled jollof rice on more occasions than you know,” the foreign secretary said light-heartedly to laughter from the audience.

“Tea makes everything better. As a British person, I know better.”

Lammy was visiting Nigeria for the first time since he was appointed foreign secretary. He would also visit South Africa.

The foreign secretary said he is launching a five-month consultation period with African nations, adding that the UK needs a “new approach to Africa”.

“This campaign isn’t just about the arts. It’s about our flourishing relationship,” he added.

“It’s about our shared ambition. I’m grateful for the support I have received since I got here. It’s vital that we both strengthen our partnership in the creative sector.

“As Wizkid put it, ‘Lagos today, London tomorrow’. With a new government in the UK, that partnership can be unleashed.

“I’m very pleased to be here.”

Here are some photos from the event.