Nigeria is set to benefit from a substantial N589 billion (£272.6 million) as a result of eight new partnership agreements signed with the United Kingdom in Abuja. These agreements, endorsed by Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning and the UK’s Charge d’Affaires, aim to strengthen collaboration in crucial areas including governance, climate change, education, health, and economic development.
During the signing ceremony, the Nigerian minister expressed gratitude for the UK’s significant support, which he viewed as a testament to the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. He highlighted the importance of these agreements given the ongoing global economic challenges impacting both Nigeria and the UK.
The minister praised the UK’s dedication to international cooperation despite its own economic difficulties and noted that the agreements tackle global issues with widespread implications. He emphasized that health, climate change, and governance are universal concerns that affect countries beyond Nigeria, influencing global migration, conflicts, and more. He also commented on the recent economic reforms in Nigeria, acknowledging the associated challenges faced by the local population.
The new partnership agreements between Nigeria and the United Kingdom are central to the Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to establish macroeconomic stability and attract both local and international investments essential for the country’s economic revitalization and growth.
The agreements acknowledge that even with significant efforts, Nigeria might not have all the resources needed for its development goals. Nonetheless, the country is optimistic that collaboration with its partners will help overcome existing challenges.
The Nigerian minister expressed gratitude for the Charge d’Affaires’ support in finalizing these agreements, noting that they represent the 15th such agreements signed by the ministry this month.
In response, the Charge d’Affaires extended sympathy for the recent floods in Nigeria and expressed the UK’s regret over the situation. She commended Nigeria’s ongoing cooperation and highlighted the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning’s crucial role in enhancing bilateral relations.
She also pointed out that the new agreements will complement the over £1 billion already invested in various programs across Nigeria. The focus of these agreements is to build on existing support to improve health, education, governance, and humanitarian aid, reflecting a strong commitment to Nigeria’s development and progress.
For years, the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office has been actively involved in Nigeria’s development, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the country’s stability and growth. The objectives of these new agreements include fostering reliable investments, empowering women and girls, providing essential crisis support, and promoting sustainable economic development, all aimed at helping Nigeria achieve a more stable and prosperous future.
The Human Assistance and Resilience Program (HARP) is a major agreement with a three-year budget of N324 billion (£150 million). It aims to expand on the previous “Force for Good Agenda” by delivering critical humanitarian aid to the Northeast of Nigeria.
The Nigeria Governance and Climate Change Programme (NGCP) follows with a budget of N84 billion (£83.8 million). This initiative is designed to help coalitions work with the government to address climate and governance issues affecting Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations. It also aims to enhance state revenue, integrate climate considerations into state policies and budgets, and improve election processes.
The Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING) program, with N82 billion (£38 million) allocated, is focused on reducing rural violence and boosting climate resilience in Northern Nigeria’s conflict-prone regions.
Other agreements include support for health training institutions, climate-resilient infrastructure, nutrition stockpiling, and humanitarian access. The final agreement, Manufacture Africa, aims to facilitate inclusive economic transformation by providing N151 billion (£70 million) in technical assistance to foster job creation across African nations.
