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LAGOS — British Foreign Secretary David Lammy began his visit to Nigeria and South Africa on November 3, launching efforts to strengthen economic ties and tackle climate challenges in collaboration with both nations. This marks Lammy’s first visit to Africa as Foreign Secretary and the UK’s first official visit to South Africa since 2013.
“Growth is the core mission of this government and will underpin our relationships in Nigeria, South Africa, and beyond,” Lammy stated, underscoring the UK’s commitment to building “long-term growth rather than short-term solutions.” He highlighted Africa’s economic potential, noting the continent’s projected population growth to 25% of the global total by 2050.
In Nigeria, Lammy will sign a Strategic Partnership agreement—the first of its kind between the UK and Nigeria—that covers areas from economic growth to climate action and security. This partnership aims to expand trade and investment under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, established earlier this year. Lammy will also announce technical support for Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance, bringing expertise from British institutions to bolster economic reforms initiated by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.
Lammy’s meetings with Nigerian leaders, including President Tinubu and Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar, will focus on expanding mutual trade and advancing climate initiatives. “This will mean more jobs, more prosperity, and more opportunities for Brits and Africans alike,” Lammy said.
In South Africa, Lammy will collaborate on a new UK-South Africa Growth Plan aimed at fostering trade and increasing agricultural employment. At the UK-South Africa bilateral forum, he will discuss an extended Strategic Partnership to 2030 with South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, focusing on climate, trade, and security.
As part of his climate agenda, Lammy will attend the Earthshot+ event in Cape Town, a global environmental conference founded by Prince William, where he will discuss green growth and announce a new Biodiversity Challenge Fund to combat illegal wildlife trade. “No growth can be truly inclusive nor effective unless it is green,” Lammy said, emphasizing the UK’s support for sustainable development across Africa.
