British Deputy High Commissioner Visits Kwara State to Strengthen Economic Ties
Gil Lever, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, recently concluded a three-day visit to Kwara State aimed at enhancing economic collaboration, promoting women’s inclusion, and fortifying security partnerships between the UK and Nigeria. The visit took place from May 11 to 13 and featured discussions with key stakeholders, including Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and the First Lady of Kwara State, Professor Olufoleke Abdulrazaq.
Meetings and Engagements Highlight Economic Opportunities
During his stay, Mr. Lever engaged with civil society organizations, religious leaders, and security officials to explore strategies for job creation and economic development. His itinerary included visits to the Ilorin Innovation Hub, the Olufo Lake Safe Haven, and the Sexual Assault Referral Center at Sobi Specialist Hospital. He also paid a courtesy call to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari.
Significant Economic Agreements Following Presidential Visit
This visit comes on the heels of President Bola Tinubu’s historic trip to the UK in March 2023, marking the first such visit by a Nigerian president in almost four decades. That trip resulted in a significant £746 million port deal and enhanced economic and security collaboration between the two nations.
Expanding Economic Ties Through UK Initiatives
In discussions with Governor Abdulrazaq, Mr. Lever examined opportunities for deepening economic ties, particularly through the UK-supported Manufacturing Africa programme. This initiative is assisting two local companies, Bespoke Design Concepts and Basita Sugar Company, by providing technical aid aimed at boosting investment and expanding job opportunities.
Support for Agricultural Export Potential
Lever emphasized the importance of the UK’s Developing Country Trade Scheme, which facilitates the duty-free or reduced-duty entry of around 3,000 Nigerian products into the UK market. She pointed out that shea butter, cashew nuts, and sesame seeds present substantial export opportunities for Kwara and urged local producers and exporters to leverage this scheme.
Focus on Women’s Empowerment and Gender Inclusion
Meetings with the First Lady concentrated on women’s economic empowerment, legislative support for special seats, and efforts to combat violence against women and children. For the fourth consecutive year, the UK Government is providing technical and financial support to the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum, chaired by Professor Abdulrazaq, to tackle gender-based violence.
Engagement with Young Innovators and Security Discussions
While at the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Mr. Lever interacted with young innovators, particularly women in tech, and announced plans for the hub’s participation in London Tech Week in June 2023. This initiative aims to connect Kwara’s innovators with UK investors and business networks. Additionally, Lever met with Kwara State Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo to discuss security measures and cooperative strategies between Nigeria and the UK.
Recognition of Kwara State’s Advancement in Women’s Representation
By the conclusion of his visit, Lever commended Kwara State’s dedication to promoting inclusion and youth development. He praised Governor Abdulrazaq’s efforts in increasing women’s representation in government, noting the transition from having no elected women in 2019 to five elected officials in the House of Representatives by 2023. Lever reiterated that Kwara is setting a commendable standard for the rest of Nigeria in governance and innovation.
