The British Deputy High Commissioner (DHC) in Lagos, Nigeria, Ben Llewellyn-Jones has stated that the United Kingdom is trying to grow non-oil and gas trade in Nigeria.
He said this while speaking on UK-Nigeria bilateral relationship at the Ambassadorial Forum, held on Friday at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos.
Ben noted that the trade in Nigeria is oil and gas; hence, they are exerting efforts to ensure the workability of other industries.
The UK envoy highlighted other industries such as agriculture, renewable energy, technology, and education.
On the issue of Brexit, The Deputy High Commissioner described the situation as an opportunity for the British entrepreneurs to explore so many ways for investment, adding that Nigeria is a natural destination for those of them looking towards Africa as Nigeria has the market size and the economy.
He, therefore, noted that part of his job is to ensure that the British coming to Nigeria had the enabling environment to invest in.
“We are trying to grow non-oil and gas trade in Nigeria. The trade in Nigeria is oil and gas.
“So, we are trying to get all the other industries such as agriculture, renewable energy, technology, and education thrive.
“The trade relationship between Nigeria and United Kingdom is still healthy.
“Brexit is giving British entrepreneurs a good opportunity to look into several ways for investment.
“For some of those looking towards Africa, Nigeria is a natural destination looking at the size of the market and the economy.
“There are challenges but part of my job is to ensure that people coming have the enabling environment to invest.” He said.
Speaking also, the Director-General, NIIA, Professor Eghosa Osaghae said that Nigeria needs all the support the UK and other countries can give.
Osaghae cited the instance of insecurity and that there is needed support in that area.
He anticipated a lot of Direct Foreign Investment into the country as it continues to diversify its economy.
“At this present time, Nigeria needs all the support that UK and other countries can give to us.