TheCable

Tom Tugendhat, a United Kingdom member of parliament and the chair of the foreign affairs committee, says Nigeria’s youths have potentials that are worth investing in.

Tugendhat’s position was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the UK parliament, following the report of the foreign affairs committee of the UK house of commons.

The committee, in a report titled ‘Lagos Calling: Nigeria and the Integrated Review’, offered recommendations to the UK government on improving relations with Nigeria.

Speaking on the report, Tugendhat highlighted opportunities in Nigeria’s film, music and tech innovation sectors, adding that the potentials of the country’s youths also offer a rich source of investment. 

“Nigeria is at the forefront of change in Africa. Its thriving film and music scene, tech innovation and multiple opportunities for investment, there is much to admire and value. The enthusiasm of the diaspora here in the UK is infectious and remains untapped,” he said. 

“Nigeria faces challenges too. Security is a concern, along with the mass movement of people related to religious tensions and food security, the task of tackling environmental issues faces few more seriously than Nigeria. 

“Its young population offers the country and the world so much, we all need to invest in their potential. 

“Today, we call on the FCDO to sharpen its focus and recognise the importance of Nigeria to the UK, not just in the region but as a global partner to build a safe and prosperous future. By bringing together the instruments of diplomacy, trade and aid, there is much to benefit all of us.” 

According to the statement, the committee said Nigeria’s “growing, vibrant and engaged community” in the UK forms one of Britain’s largest diaspora groups and that the country’s economic growth is necessary for the UK’s future.

“In a new report, ‘Lagos calling: Nigeria and the Integrated Review’, the committee states that projected growth, increasing economic capabilities and cultural weight at home and in the UK, marks Nigeria out as a future global partner for the UK,” the statement reads.

“As the UK looks to sustain its strategic advantage in science and technology, Nigeria is likely to be an increasingly important partner. Developing approaches to skills building in IT, legal systems, the Nigerian civil service will help both.

“Part of creating an enabling environment for the Nigerian tech sector involves setting out a clear and coherent approach – including how it will be funded – to the UK’s partnership with Nigeria on research and training for science and technology.

“The UK and Nigerian governments share a determination to increase resilience in the face of climate change and habitat loss. The Committee calls on the FCDO to champion Nigerian-led international climate initiatives with broad holistic vision, such as the Great Green Wall, contributing where the UK can add value.”