The British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonny Baxter, has reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening bilateral trade relations and supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
Baxter made the pledge on Thursday at the inauguration of the UK–Nigeria Economic Diversification Working Group Dialogue in Abuja.
The event, convened under the UK–Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, follows the recently concluded Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) Roadshow held in Kano and Lagos.
The dialogue brought together senior government officials, trade experts, and private sector leaders from both countries to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s non-oil sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and digital services.
Baxter reiterated the UK’s commitment to helping Nigerian exporters take advantage of the DCTS, which offers tariff reductions and simplified trade rules for eligible products.
Under the scheme, more than 3,000 Nigerian products—such as ginger, cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, soya beans, and textiles—stand to benefit from enhanced access to the UK market.
“This dialogue reflects our shared commitment to driving inclusive, sustainable economic growth through strategic export diversification,” Baxter said.
“The UK remains a steadfast partner in supporting Nigeria’s ambition to stimulate economic growth by working with both government and private sector players.”
Speaking on behalf of Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, the Permanent Secretary, Amb. Abba Nura Rimi, represented by Mrs. Gertrude Orji, praised the initiative and urged stakeholders to understand the DCTS framework to maximize its benefits.
“Through partnerships like this with the UK Department for Business and Trade, we aim to reduce barriers to trade, enhance competitiveness, and ensure Nigerian products meet international market standards,” Rimi said.
The dialogue marks another milestone in efforts to deepen trade collaboration and unlock new opportunities for investment and innovation between both nations.
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