In moments of high-level diplomacy, nations speak in carefully calibrated signals. Protocol, presence and even absence are read for meaning. In Nigeria, however, these readings often travel beyond the language of statecraft into the realm of sentiment—where identity, ancestry and expectation begin to shape interpretation.

The recent conversations trailing the United Kingdom visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu offer a useful case study. Questions have been raised in some quarters about the non-visibility of Kemi Badenoch, a prominent British politician of Nigerian descent, during aspects of the visit. For some, her absence has been interpreted as symbolic. For others, it has been framed as strategic. Beneath these interpretations lies a deeper issue—how Nigerians understand power, identity and diplomacy in a globalised political order.

This is where clarity becomes necessary.

Diplomacy is not organised around ancestry. It is organised around state interest.

Public officials, regardless of origin, operate within the institutional frameworks of the countries they serve. A British cabinet minister, regardless of heritage, functions within the priorities, protocols and policy directions of the United Kingdom. Their responsibilities are defined not by ancestral sentiment but by constitutional obligation.

To assume otherwise is to misunderstand the architecture of modern governance.

The expectation that shared ethnicity should translate into political alignment is rooted in a domestic political culture where identity often shapes access and influence. In Nigeria, ethnicity has historically been a factor in political mobilisation, representation and negotiation. It is therefore not surprising that such expectations are sometimes projected outward—onto international relationships where the rules are fundamentally different.

But global politics does not operate on inherited sentiment.

A politician of Nigerian origin in the United Kingdom is, first and foremost, a British political actor. Their relevance within diplomatic engagements depends on their portfolio, their institutional role and the priorities of the host government. Protocol is not a cultural courtesy; it is a structured system.

Understanding this distinction is essential if Nigeria is to engage effectively on the global stage.

There is, however, a second layer to the issue—perception.

In the absence of clear communication, gaps are often filled by speculation. When citizens observe high-level visits and do not see expected faces, questions naturally arise. In societies where trust in official narratives is uneven, those questions can quickly evolve into assumptions. Assumptions, when repeated, begin to take on the appearance of fact.

This is where leadership communication becomes critical.

Silence in the face of public curiosity does not neutralise speculation; it often amplifies it. While not every diplomatic detail requires public explanation, clarity on the principles guiding engagement can help prevent misinterpretation. Diplomacy thrives on discretion, but democratic societies require a measure of transparency to sustain trust.

Beyond perception lies a more delicate dimension—the intersection of identity and national interest.

The conversation has, in some instances, been framed through a cultural lens, particularly within Yoruba discourse. This introduces a question that must be handled with care: can diplomacy reflect ethnic affinity?

The answer, in functional terms, is no.

A state cannot conduct its foreign relations on the basis of ethnic alignment without undermining its own legitimacy. Nigeria is a multi-ethnic federation. Its external engagements must reflect national coherence, not sectional preference. To frame diplomatic interactions as expressions of ethnic interest is to risk reducing the state to a collection of competing identities.

Nigeria must begin to separate identity from statecraft in its public discourse. It must recognise that diaspora figures, however accomplished, are not extensions of domestic political structures.

That path leads to fragmentation, not strength.

This does not mean that identity is irrelevant. Cultural background can shape perspective. Shared heritage can create informal connections. But these factors operate at the margins of diplomacy, not at its core. They may influence tone, but they do not determine structure.

The danger arises when informal expectations are mistaken for formal obligations.

There is also a broader strategic implication.

Nigeria aspires to play a more significant role in global affairs. It seeks investment, partnerships and influence within international institutions. Achieving these goals requires a clear understanding of how power operates beyond its borders. Misreading diplomatic signals through the lens of domestic identity politics can lead to flawed assumptions and misplaced expectations.

A nation that interprets global engagement primarily through sentiment risks strategic miscalculation.

The more productive approach is to deepen institutional understanding. Who sets the agenda in a state visit? Which offices determine participation? What factors guide diplomatic representation? These are the questions that align with the realities of international relations.

Anything else belongs to the realm of conjecture.

This moment therefore offers an opportunity—not for controversy, but for reflection.

Nigeria must begin to separate identity from statecraft in its public discourse. It must recognise that diaspora figures, however accomplished, are not extensions of domestic political structures. They are participants in different systems, governed by different rules and accountable to different constituencies.

Respecting that distinction does not diminish national pride. It strengthens strategic clarity.

At the same time, Nigerian leadership must remain attentive to perception. In a connected world, optics matter. The absence or presence of individuals at high-level events will always attract interpretation. Managing that interpretation requires a balance between diplomatic discretion and public communication.

Clarity, even when limited, is often more effective than silence.

Ultimately, the issue is not about one visit or one individual. It is about how a nation understands its place in the world.

If Nigeria is to engage effectively in global politics, it must move beyond the instinct to personalise and ethnicise diplomatic interactions. It must cultivate a more disciplined reading of international engagement—one grounded in institutions, interests and structured relationships.

Power in the modern world is not inherited through ancestry. It is exercised through systems.

Honour in identity is valuable.

But clarity in statecraft is indispensable.

Nigeria must learn to distinguish between the two.

*Ogundipe is a public affairs analyst and former president of the Nigerian Union  of Journalists and African Union of Journalists. He writes from Abuja.

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Nigeria returned to global significance with the just-concluded state visit to the United Kingdom by President Bola Tinubu. The President and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, played their roles well to critical acclaim. Both the President and the First Lady brought grace to the occasion with their poise, elegance, and comportment. Since the visit ended on Thursday, if the Nigerian brand stock had been traded on the London Stock Exchange, the share price would have risen astronomically, delivering unprecedented value to shareholders.

The reception at Windsor by the British Royal Family, led by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, which ended with a state banquet, marked a high-profile foreign policy moment for Nigeria and President Tinubu. If head-of-state diplomacy underscores the irreplaceable role of a leader in stewarding and cementing strategic partnerships between two nations, then President Tinubu’s visit to the UK lived up to its billing. The visit, which has been described as a masterpiece of diplomacy, especially given the special bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, has delivered clear dividends to the Nigerian people, as evidenced by the signing of some bilateral agreements across critical sectors of the economy.

Here are the key takeaways from the state visit:

1. Lagos ports modernisation funding: One of the major wins of President Tinubu’s visit to the UK is the £746 million financing secured for the modernisation of the Apapa and Tincan Island ports in Lagos through the UK Export Finance, being coordinated by Citibank. The financing deal was signed on behalf of the federal government of Nigeria by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun. The deal will expand the ports’ infrastructure and automation, double the capacity of the two ports, reduce congestion, improve trade facilitation, and generally boost Nigeria’s competitiveness as a maritime hub in West and Central Africa. Since Apapa Port was established in 1913 and Tincan Island Port was commissioned in 1977, the two premier ports in Nigeria, which account for over 70% of Nigeria’s port activities, have not undergone major refurbishment. Rather than relying on treasury funding, the UK funding deal will ease fiscal pressure on budget provisions. The ports’ modernisation will ensure a comprehensive rehabilitation of ageing quay walls, deploy modern cargo-handling systems and completely digitise port operations to deliver efficiency and quick turnaround for the clearing of goods, thereby boosting economic output and national productivity. The modernisation will also boost job creation across port activities and the ecosystem’s value chain.

2. Expanding trade opportunities: President Tinubu and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during their bilateral meeting at No 10 Downing Street, agreed to deepen trade between Nigeria and the UK. Nigeria, as the largest market, offers huge opportunities for UK goods and services as the country seeks to expand market access outside the European Union. To increase trade volume between the two countries, which currently exceeds 8 billion pounds per annum, Nigerian businesses, especially small and medium-scale business owners, will be able to take full advantage of the duty-free and reduced-tariff measures granted by the UK government under its Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). Under this scheme, over 3,000 products from Nigeria will get easy access to the UK market. The goods include cocoa, cashew nuts, sesame seeds, ginger, craft and textile products. This scheme will further boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings from the non-oil sector.

3.Security and Defence: With the mounting security challenges being confronted by the country, especially terrorism and banditry that have become a chokehold on social and economic activities across the country, especially in the North-East and North-West, where the Boko Haram insurgency and kidnapping for ransom have become endemic, President Tinubu, during the state visit, sought and secured the support of the British government for more military hardware, logistical and training support for Nigeria’s armed forces and cooperation on intelligence sharing. President Tinubu, during a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, harped on the urgent need for greater support from the United Kingdom to Nigeria to end the ugly incidents of insecurity in Nigeria. During the visit, Nigeria’s minister of defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), held a bilateral meeting with his British counterpart, Vernon Coaker, and signed a memorandum of understanding to operationalise defence cooperation and coordination further. President Tinubu made the point during and after the state visit to the UK that his administration would seek all internal and external solutions and support to end the scourge of insecurity in Nigeria.

4.Deal on £500 million investment in agriculture: Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and UK-based Asset Green Limited signed a £500 million deal for the development of a large-scale integrated dairy production and processing factory in Nigeria. Under the deal, which will transform Nigeria’s dairy value chain, Asset Green Limited, a private company focused on agriculture and food processing through its agri-food platform, Agrium Capital Limited, executed the agreement with NSIA. The initiative will see the development of 20,000 hectares of climate-smart pasture for livestock feeding alongside a dairy farm with about 10,000 milking cows. There will also be a modern processing facility that will manufacture a range of dairy products, such as fresh milk, butter, cream, milk powder, and up to 15,000 metric tonnes of infant formula annually. The minister of industry, trade and investment, Jumoke Oduwole, and the chief executive of NSIA, Aminu Umar-Sadiq, executed the deal on behalf of the government of Nigeria.

5. Inclusive education opportunity: Another outstanding outcome of President Tinubu’s visit to the UK is the partnership with Coventry University to bring UK degrees to Nigeria. The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, signed the agreement to establish a Coventry University campus in Alaro City, Lagos. This will facilitate easy access to UK university education in Nigeria and help conserve foreign exchange for families, as their children can now stay in Nigeria and receive the same university education they would have spent huge sums of money to obtain in the UK. The proposed campus in Alaro City, Lagos, will offer bachelor’s and master’s programmes across STEMM, business, and TVET, with admissions expected between Q3 and Q4 of 2026. According to the Minister of Education, Coventry University setting up a campus in Nigeria is beyond access: “This is about building Nigeria’s human capital – developing the skills, talent, and workforce needed to drive innovation, productivity, and long-term national growth.”

At the sub-national level, the Lagos State Government also signed a memorandum of understanding with Estar, an organisation with expertise in digital learning, to bring modern digital learning platforms and infrastructure into our public primary and secondary schools. The agreement, signed by Governor Sanwo-Olu, will empower Lagos State students with access to curriculum-based tools that support critical thinking, communication, decision-making, leadership, and AI skills. It will also strengthen reading, comprehension, confidence, and classroom participation.

6. Private sector-led youth empowerment: Another high point of President Tinubu’s UK visit was the partnership agreement between the King’s Trust and Access Bank. This private-sector-led initiative will leverage King’s Trust International’s expertise in youth development, alongside Access Bank’s pan-African reach, to support programmes that equip young people with the skills, confidence, and guidance needed to pursue meaningful employment and entrepreneurship. Through this endeavour, thousands of young Africans will gain pathways to sustainable livelihoods and opportunities to realise their potential. At the ceremony to consummate the agreement were Access Bank chairman, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, and executive vice-chair of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede.
7. Expansion of opportunities in the creative economy: The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, led the Nigerian government delegation to Lancaster House for a bilateral engagement at a Creative Industries Roundtable with the British government led by her counterpart, Chris Bryant. The high-level engagements aimed to strengthen UK–Nigeria collaboration across the creative economy. Participants from the UK at the forum include a strong delegation of industry leaders and stakeholders across music, film, publishing, design, and technology to chart a clear course for future collaboration.

During the bilateral engagement, discussions focused on unlocking growth, addressing structural barriers, and advancing critical priorities, including skills development, access to finance, and the role of intellectual property in scaling creative enterprise. While speaking on the new framework for cooperation with the UK, Minister Hannatu said: “As Nigeria continues to be recognised as a priority growth market, we remain committed to building strategic partnerships that position our creative industries for global competitiveness.”

8.Agreement on migration: Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Ojo, and the Secretary of State for the Home Department of the Government of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, Shabana Mahmood, signed the agreement on migration. The MoU establishes a framework to facilitate a regulated and safe migration flow between the two countries and to encourage further bilateral cooperation in the fight against irregular migration and associated acts by citizens of each country, in accordance with their respective immigration and citizenship laws and extant international treaties, conventions, protocols, agreements, and charters. Under the agreement, Nigeria and the United Kingdom will work together to secure the dignified return of their nationals who do not, or no longer, have the right to enter or remain in the territory of the other country. A clear condition in the MoU is that the returnees concerned are bona fide nationals of the country and are treated with dignity and respect, with due regard to their human rights and fundamental freedoms. Under the agreement, law enforcement officers in each country will take the necessary action to protect the interests and well-being of citizens of either party and to mitigate conflict triggers related to migration matters.

9.Infrastructure Investment Forum: Nigeria hosted an Infrastructure Investment Forum in London at the headquarters of Standard Bank International, where the chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, Minister of industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, and minister of state for finance, Taiwo Oyedele, made pitches to global investors on investment opportunities in infrastructural development in Nigeria. The senior officials told the international investors that Nigeria offers a compelling investment case anchored on natural and human capital. They identified key areas in renewable energy, oil and gas, roads, pipelines, housing, ports, aviation, rail, and other critical areas that offer significant returns on investment.

10. UK-Nigeria Project Agglomeration Compact: Mutandis Africa, a pan-African investment and trade facilitation organisation in partnership with the Nigerian Revenue Service, hosted a forum at the House of Lords to design a framework to boost Foreign Direct Investments into bankable projects at the sub-national level. Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, and senior federal government officials, along with private sector leaders, engaged directly with top players in the UK’s investor community, including private equity funds, sovereign wealth investors, development finance institutions, family offices, and pension capital managers. Governor Mbah used the forum to pitch major tourism and hospitality, power, real estate, agriculture and food processing projects in Enugu State to investors.

President Tinubu’s state visit ended on a very high note on the second day at Tate Modern, where he was a special guest at the ‘Nigeria Modernism’ art exhibition alongside the UK’s Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, and other art patrons. Beyond the artistic showcase and grandeur, the exhibition also highlighted Nigeria’s soft power and foregrounded its cultural assets.

On the whole, the state visit was a huge success. A preponderance of views from foreign policy experts, analysts and pundits affirm the significance of the visit at a time Nigeria is gradually being taken seriously around the world on the back of the sterling economic reforms of President Tinubu. The state visit was a massive boost to Nigeria’s global standing and profile, and a signal to the world that the country has enormous potential and remains the giant of Africa.

*Ajayi is Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media and Publicity

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“Do you think President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will revisit his ambassadorial-nominee list, seeing the avalanche of criticisms that have trailed some of the names on the list? Some of them have even been rejected by the countries they were posted to!”

“Haba! People! Why can’t we for once see something positive in Emilokan? Should the ambassadorial list be the topic at this moment when the whole of Great Britain stands at attention for Nigeria and its president? For your information, they are no longer nominees but ambassador-designates, having been cleared by the Senate…”

“Rubber-stamp senate! A camel will pass through the eyes of a needle with those so-called senators…”

“Call them whatever you like! The senators have done their job of screening and confirming the nominees. The last hurdle is for the country of accreditation to screen their papers and accept or reject them for reasons best known to those countries…”

“Are you aware that some of them have already been rejected? It shows the tardiness of the Tinubu administration and its penchant for not doing its home-work well.”

“It is now that I know you are ignorant of how some of these things work! Tardiness or no tardiness, home-work or no home-work, home governments can come up with a thousand-and-one reasons to reject any ambassador-designate. An ambassador that has been at his post for donkey years can also be sent packing overnight. That is in the nature of those appointments.”

“I am surprised that you are defending the indefensible…”

“Feel free to be surprised! What I am saying is that the ambassadorial list should not be the rave of the moment when the whole of Great Britain’s royalty stands still for Nigeria and its leader. We are the cynosure of all eyes the world over…”

“Congratulations!”

“Thank you!”

“But does that put food on your table? Does it solve any of Nigeria’s myriad problems?”

“Food! Food! Food! Some people don’t know more than food! Which is why they are already agitating for palliatives because of the US-Israel/Iran war. When are we going to learn our lessons? What did the previous palliative measures palliate? Were they not mere smokescreens and opportunities for those in charge to fleece the country and enrich themselves at the expense of the suffering masses?”

“So you expect the people to simply fold their arms and not cry out?”

“Nigeria is not the only country being affected by the fall-outs from the US-Israel war with Iran. Have you seen any other country doling out billions in cash to their citizens? Rather, they are addressing the problem with policies that have long-lasting effects, not the fire-brigade and panicky measures that we adopt here…”

“The more reason why Emilokan should have cancelled or at least postponed his so-called state visit jamboree to address pressing problems at home. Imagine him sitting at a state dinner or banquet when he was supposed to be observing the Ramadan fast!”

“If you unavoidably miss a few days of any obligatory fast, you can make up for it afterwards. There are provisions for that. Besides, the state visit is part of the solutions to our problems that Mr. President is assiduously working at. It’s an opportunity of a life-time…”

“Thank you for the last leg of your argument! The state visit is an opportunity of a life-time – just like becoming our president was Emilokan’s life-time ambition! But must one man achieve all his life-time ambitions on the back of suffering Nigerians?”

“If you were in his shoes, would you have acted differently? Let’s try and be objective in some of the things we say. The golden rule is ‘do unto others’…”

“Exactly! Which is why I expected you to know that King Charles and Great Britain are not being altruistic about this state visit. It is not because they love Emilokan or Nigeria or even that they have forgotten so soon that one of their recent prime ministers, David Cameron, described Nigeria as a ‘fantastically corrupt country.’ They are merely trying to use us to achieve their own selfish interest.”

“Ah-aa? Were you not in this country? The man has a negative Midas touch. Whatever he touches turns to dust. He ruins everything he touches or comes in contact with. He ruined a media organisation. He ran an airline aground. A big hotel collapsed on his head. He ate up a flagship insurance company. The energy sector was not spared his avaricious appetite…”

“And what is wrong with that? Was it not Lord Palmerston, a 19th century British statesman, that made the famous statement that nations have no permanent friends or enemies but permanent interests? Every nation uses all the weapons at their disposal to pursue and advance their national interests…”

“Oh-oo! You see what I mean? The state visit is just a means of advancing Britain’s national interests. Meanwhile, we are gallivanting and fawning, wasting scarce resources on Emilokan’s habitually bloated entourage and thinking we are something important…”

“Have you not heard it said that ‘Cunny man die, Cunny man bury am’? Diplomacy is a game. Play-your-own, I-play-my-own. Emilokan and his entourage, our egg-heads and other professionals knowledgeable in such matters should rub minds and beat Great Britain at its game…”

“That is not possible! The English are reputed as the masters of diplomacy…”

“And Nigerians are reputed as the masters of subterfuge! Didn’t you hear King Charles himself acknowledge that ‘Naija no dey carry last’?”

“He was just humouring us! With President Donald Trump insulting and rubbishing his NATO allies, Europe is looking elsewhere for succour. They are reviving the 1815 Concert of Europe, dead since 1914, and forming a new Eurocentric defence arrangement that bypasses the United States. Britain is trying to revive its moribund empire – the Commonwealth…”

“You may be correct! The Commonwealth has lost its glory. The last time I heard of it making waves was when Nigeria’s Emeka Anyaoku was its Secretary-General…”

“The same man who came here, visited MKO Abiola in detention, in company with the then Number Two man, Admiral Okhai Akhigbe, and MKO died shortly afterwards?

“Yes, but don’t insinuate anything. It is useless crying over spilled milk. Just like Britain may be trying to take advantage of us, we also should try and make the best use of the opportunity as the hub around which they want to build their resurgence and regain their lost glory as a dominant world power…”

“The more reason we cannot be flippant with ambassadorial nomination! Who represents us on the world stage – their competence and clout – will determine to a large extent whether or not we make the best use of begging opportunities…”

“That is true, but don’t forget that ambassadorial nomination also lends itself to political patronage…”

“That is exactly the point I am trying to make! Political patronage should not trump the need to put square pegs in square holes. Besides, who represents us in foreign countries is a reflection of who we are. If thieves or confirmed criminals, then…”

“I understand, but…”

“Especially when Emilokan himself has his own alleged reputational challenges with regard to one of the world’s most important diplomatic capitals. Should someone with controversial records and tainted integrity be posted to represent us in the same location? What message are we sending to the world? Or has he been posted there for a purpose?”

“I hope you are not insinuating again! Anyway, there is no cause for alarm! E lo f’ókan ba’le, as Emilokan himself would say! Our president has a reputation for listening to public opinion and deferring to it, if it makes sense to him…”

“Why it made sense to appoint this man in the first place baffles me. What is he bringing to the table? Bags and baggage full of scandals? It is not even as if he is jobless, being a senator as it were! Tell me, why him?”

“There are things those of them in power know that we ordinary mortals do not know. For instance, I was wondering why a particular widow should be given an ambassadorial appointment when those who know better than I did explained that her appointment was a posthumous award to her late husband, a two-term governor of one of the south-west states…”

“Imagine! They are still compensating someone who is dead? What for?”

“I cannot tell!”

“But can you tell why someone steeped in controversies and mired in scandals, whose name is corruption personified, should represent this country in an important diplomatic capital abroad? Or have you not followed the trending news of the countless atrocities…?”

“A man or a woman?”

“Ah-aa? Were you not in this country? The man has a negative Midas touch. Whatever he touches turns to dust. He ruins everything he touches or comes in contact with. He ruined a media organisation. He ran an airline aground. A big hotel collapsed on his head. He ate up a flagship insurance company. The energy sector was not spared his avaricious appetite…”

”Really? How then did he run for and win an election? Who cleared him to run? And who voted for him?”

“That is the Nigerian debacle! Corruption and the technicalities of the law. That such a person can be nominated in the first place, can be vetted and be given the all-cleared nod by the security agencies, and can scale through screening at the senate, a stunt diminutive Nasir el-Rufai could not perform, tells you that this person is not an ordinary person.”

“Truly, there must be more to this man than meets the eyes. Maybe the media should help us unravel the mystery behind the man…”

“Which media? They were among his first set of victims? I read the story of how he effortlessly outwitted them and couldn’t believe my eyes.”

“One of the tragic flaws of our journalists is that they know the editorial side of journalism but lack requisite knowledge of its business side. Hence the graveyard of many once-upon-a-time news mediums.”

“I see! So, guess what happens when the international media gets hold of the dossier of this ambassador. Just imagine the embarrassment the country will suffer when media organizations like Aljazeera, which pull no punches, engage this man. He will be worse than Daniel Bwala.”

“There is a way out! If by fire by force the man must be made an ambassador, then post him to one obscure corner of the world; like Armenia, for instance, or Azerbaijan…”

“What is that?”

“Far-away countries in some hidden corners of the world where the odious stench of the man will least assault our sensibilities…”

“But is this how a country should be governed?”

“How else should a Banana Republic be governed?”

“Are you by any means insinuating…”

“Save your breath! The jury is out on that already! As we await their verdict, let’s celebrate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Britain. I could hear Nigerians in the crowd screaming, ‘I am proud to be a Nigerian’…”

“But did you not also hear those yelling at Tinubu to go back home and face the myriad problems bedevilling the country? The Nigerian media was generally negative about the state visit…”

“That is in the historical nature of the Nigerian media as an adversarial press, with its DNA rooted in the fight against the colonial authorities. So, Nigeria’s media are historically not authority-friendly. Besides, bad news travels faster and sells better than good news…”

“I see! What news do you think Emilokan will bring back from London – good or bad news?”

“I suspect it could be something like: E lo f’okan ba’le! Brother Charles has agreed to support my re-election bid in 2027 by helping me to fulfill my 2023 election campaign promise of providing constant power supply to Nigerians – failure which, I said they should not vote for me in 2027!”

“Akikaaa!”

Barka de Sallah to my esteemed readers!

*Bolawole (turnpot@gmail.com 0807 552 5533), former Editor of PUNCH newspapers, Chairman of its Editorial Board and Deputy Editor-in-chief, was also the Managing Director/ Editor-in-chief of the Westerner newsmagazine. He writes the “ON THE LORD’S DAY” column in the Sunday Tribune and “TREASURES” column in the New Telegraph newspapers. He is also a public affairs analyst on radio and television.

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The memorandum on immigration cooperation, like other memoranda signed, aimed to strengthen the partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Nigeria’s Minister of Interior and the Secretary of State for the Home Department of the Government of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland signed the Migration MoU.

The MoU establishes a framework to facilitate a regulated and safe migration flow between the two countries and to encourage further bilateral cooperation in the fight against irregular migration and associated acts by citizens of each country, in accordance with their respective immigration and citizenship laws and extant international treaties, conventions, protocols, agreements, and charters.

Nowhere in the 12-page memorandum is Nigeria required to accept foreign nationals other than Nigerians. Nationals to be repatriated must have undergone multiple levels of identification and verification, and, where errors occur, they are returned to the requesting country at the requesting country’s cost.

Under the agreement, Nigeria and the United Kingdom will work together to secure the dignified return of their nationals who do not, or no longer, have the right to enter or remain in the territory of the other country.

A clear condition in the MoU is that the returnees concerned are bona fide nationals of the country and are treated with dignity and respect, with due regard to their human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Law enforcement officers in each country will take the necessary action to protect the interests and well-being of citizens of either party and to mitigate conflict triggers related to migration matters.

A key provision in the MoU is that the migrant to be returned must carry his legally acquired personal belongings to the country of destination, unlike in the past when migrants left with nothing.

Article 12 further reinforces this good deal: “Every returnee will be given ample opportunity to make adequate arrangements for the transfer or disposal of his property in the territory of the requesting party, under the supervision of the mission of the requested party.”

Another provision is that where a return is being considered, and the person has made a claim under relevant domestic or international human rights legislation, that claim will be considered in line with the provisions under the party’s respective domestic legislation. The appeal may relate to circumstances in which the foreign nationals have been lawfully resident in the territory of the requesting party for most of their lives and socially and culturally integrated in the territory of the requesting party. Another ground of appeal may be where the nationals would face significant obstacles to their integration into the country to which they are to be deported.

Article 9 of the MoU sets out the conditions for the migrant’s return.

“Before departure, identification checks will be carried out by the officers of the requested party in the territory of the requesting party and on arrival by the competent authorities of the requested party. The requesting party will coordinate all returns with the officers of the requested party.

“A return may be conducted by means of a scheduled aircraft or an aircraft chartered specifically for this purpose by the authorities of the parties; the requesting party will provide the flight details and particulars of each returnee five (5) working days before the date of return.

“A return will be conducted using an original, valid passport, or, if the requesting party can biometrically match a returnee to a visa application made in the territory of the requested party, then an expedited process will be permissible, via which the requesting party will facilitate the return or repatriation using a UK Letter (UKL).

“If a returnee cannot be biometrically matched to a visa application by the requesting party, but there is otherwise strong evidence to confirm nationality, including a copy of a passport, a passport number or a national identity card, then an expedited process will again be permissible via which the requesting party will facilitate return or repatriation using a UK Letter (UKL).

“Should the requested party not be satisfied with a returnee’s identity within five (5) working days of submission of the UK Letter (UKL) to Nigerian authorities, detailed reasons should be presented to the requesting party why the identity cannot be satisfied. In these circumstances, removal will be deferred.

“If subsequent evidence shows that a returnee who has been returned is not a national of the requested party, the requesting party will take the person back to its territory at the requesting party’s cost and by the most efficient means possible. The request for the return of the person referred to in Article X will be made within ten (10) working days following the return exercise and carried out within fourteen (14) working days after acceptance of the request.”

Article 9, subsection 3, shows that Nigeria has not ceded to the UK the right to document the repatriated person.

The section says: It shall be the sole responsibility of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to issue and handle, as is necessary under Nigerian domestic legislation, any Nigerian documentation (including the digital acknowledgement of receipt of a UK Letter) ahead of the notified date of return as stated in the UK Letter. This shall be distinct from the UK Letter process and remains the sole right and responsibility of Nigerian authorities, including the handling of the travel document and any onward transmission required from the issuing office to enable entry.

Article 11 deals with returnee reintegration assistance. It states that every returnee will be able to access basic on-arrival and reintegration assistance in the territory of the requested party.

“Short-term assistance may include airport reception, accommodation, onward transportation, care and provision packs and small cash assistance. Medium-term assistance can include support to find and reunite with family; support in obtaining the in-country documentation required, signposting to local services, and the potential provision of mental well-being and counselling services (if required).

“Longer-term assistance may allow access to a Returnee Education and Entrepreneurship Fund to enable sustainable reintegration. Support may include accessing the local job market, setting up a business, accessing vocational training or further education, and assistance with legal migration opportunities.

“Should the parties’ domestic legislation regarding the provision of reintegration support to all or certain categories of returnees change, or should the overarching non-legally mandated package of reintegration support change, the parties will inform each other as soon as is practicable.”

The MoU, similar to those signed in 2012, 2017, and 2022, is for an initial period of five years, renewable for a further five-year period, as may be agreed by the parties.

We reiterate that media organisations should seek clarification when uncertain about any issue to avoid misinforming the public.

*Onanuga is the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy 

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President Tinubu met with United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street, where the two countries agreed on a deal to refurbish two major ports in Lagos, worth £746m.

The president described his state visit to the United Kingdom — the first by a Nigerian leader in 37 years — as “very thrilling and significant” in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

“We cannot forget the institutional development we have enjoyed over the years,” the Nigerian leader said at Downing Street ahead of bilateral talks.

He noted that discussions would cover trade, the economy, climate change, terrorism, and wider global challenges.

“Nigeria is currently going through strong reforms of its economy, and we will discuss that further in our bilateral discussions.

“Currently, the entire world is challenged. Nigeria is not immune to what is happening around the world. I have seen your reactions on television on certain developments.

“My reaction, as you rightly said, is the economy and the welfare of the people and how we should work together to improve the livelihood of our people,” he said.

Prime Minister Starmer, in his remarks, described the visit as historic and highlighted the significance of the State Banquet hosted by the King in honour of the Nigerian delegation.

He reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s appreciation of its enduring relationship with Nigeria, particularly the vibrant people-to-people connections that continue to strengthen both societies.

He noted that both countries already maintained strong collaboration in areas such as the economy, defence, and security, and said the newly reached agreements on exports and business exchanges reflected a shared determination to deepen cooperation and broaden engagement on global issues.

Later, at Lancaster House, President Bola Tinubu, together with his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, witnessed the £746m agreement for the modernisation of the infrastructure at the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.

The agreement was signed on behalf of Nigeria by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State and UK Minister for Small Business and Economic Transformation, Blair McDougall MP, on behalf of the British government.

Edun explained that the agreements were consistent with Nigeria’s priority on infrastructure, energy, and industrial development.

He noted that the increasing emphasis on bilateral partnerships would help attract the scale of investment required to boost economic activity, create jobs, and reduce poverty, in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said the agreements underscored growing confidence and mutual trust between both countries, as well as a shared commitment to deliver tangible economic outcomes for Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

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President Bola Tinubu will land at the airport on March 17, 2026 to begin a historic State Visit that will showcase to the world the unique bond that exists between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.  When the formalities of the visit begin on March 18, the president, in the company of his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will be the fifth Nigerian leader to be so honoured at the highest level of diplomacy by the British Crown and the first to be hosted at Windsor Castle. The four previous Nigerian leaders were hosted at the Buckingham Palace.

This visit carries symbolism beyond ceremony. It reflects the steady evolution of a relationship shaped first by history, then by diplomacy, and now increasingly by commerce, investment, and shared global ambition.

Nigeria’s post independence leader, Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa, the first to be invited on a State Visit by a British sovereign, was received on December 14, 1965, by Queen Elizabeth II in a move that signalled the preeminent status of Nigeria as the giant of Africa on a global stage, just five years after independence from British colonial rule. Eight years later, Queen Elizabeth II hosted General Yakubu Gowon, the Military Head of State, on June 12, 1973. That visit was followed by that of the first democratically elected President of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Usman Shagari, which began from March 17 through March 20, 1981.

By the time the fourth visit by a Nigerian leader took place in 1989, the country had, again, fallen under military rule after the short spell of the Shagari administration from October 1, 1979, to December 31, 1983. Queen Elizabeth II hosted General Ibrahim Babangida and his late wife, Mariam Babangida, to a spectacular State Visit that ended on May 12, 1989.

If the previous four State Visits elevated the special relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, President Tinubu’s scheduled visit, which was first announced by the British Royal Family on February 10, 2026, is taking the bond between the two great nations to a new era of cooperation and shared values. It is worth stating that Nigeria is the only country in Africa whose leader will be hosted on a state visit by His Majesty’s government for the fifth time. Only South Africa whose President has been received three times came close and the last was when President Jacob Zuma and his wife, Thobeka Zuma, were hosted between March 3 to March 5, 2010. Other leaders of African countries such as Egypt, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Senegal, Morocco, Malawi, Liberia, Zambia and Tanzania have only been hosted once.

President Tinubu’s visit is not only a reaffirmation of enduring ties. It is also a statement of intent about the future both countries seek to build together.

Since Independence in 1960, Nigeria and the United Kingdom have enjoyed robust bilateral relations covering education, defence, trade, culture, technology, and sports.

Security cooperation has also remained a central pillar of this partnership. The United Kingdom continues to support Nigeria in areas such as counter terrorism training, intelligence collaboration, and military capacity building, particularly in efforts to stabilise parts of the country affected by insurgency and organised crime. This cooperation reflects the shared interest of both nations in regional stability and international security.

President Tinubu’s visit to the UK on the invitation of King Charles III, at a time the United Kingdom is redefining her global trade relationships following exit from the European Union, is not just another visit. It is a visit that speaks to the status of Nigeria as the world’s largest Black democracy and the biggest market in Africa. It is also coming on the heels of significant economic reforms initiated by President Tinubu to stabilise Nigeria’s economy, liberalise the foreign exchange market, reform the tax system, and reposition the country for investment led growth.

Nigeria today stands at an inflection point where bold domestic reforms are beginning to align with a renewed diplomatic push to attract global capital, expand trade, and reposition Africa’s largest economy for long term competitiveness. With a population projected to become the third largest in the world within the next three decades, Nigeria’s economic trajectory will increasingly shape the future of Africa’s growth story. As global investors look toward emerging markets for the next wave of growth, Nigeria is positioning itself to become one of the most consequential economic frontiers of the twenty first century.

The post Brexit UK government continues to expand trade and market access for British goods and services through strategic bilateral partnerships around the world. Nowhere else in Africa will the UK seek to deepen cooperation more than with the continent’s largest market where hundreds of British corporations have maintained a strong and profitable presence for more than a century.

Nigeria is the second largest trading partner of the United Kingdom in Africa with annual bilateral trade volumes estimated at about eight billion pounds across energy, finance, education, technology, and retail. Nigeria’s trade and economic partnership with the United Kingdom have been significantly strengthened under the UK Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), which was signed in 2024 under the leadership of President Tinubu. Under the ETIP, the two countries designed a strategic framework to boost bilateral trade beyond current levels while removing barriers to commerce and expanding cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, technology, renewable energy, fintech, manufacturing, retail, and the creative economy. In an era where global supply chains are shifting and emerging markets are competing for capital, deeper economic cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom presents opportunities for both nations to expand trade, investment, and innovation across multiple sectors.

Other key aspects of the ETIP include economic diversification and support for export led economic activities. With ETIP, Nigerian exporters can effectively leverage the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), which offers low to zero tariff access to the UK market for more than 3,000 products. The framework is also focused on job creation for the citizens of both countries by stimulating private sector investment, strengthening value chains, and supporting Nigeria’s broader economic reform agenda.

While Nigeria’s creative and cultural products are on global ascendancy, ETIP also provides a platform for structured cooperation in the creative industries through a specialised Technical Working Group. The group will work to deepen collaboration in film production, music, fashion, digital media, and cultural exports while attracting more British investment into Nigeria’s fast growing creative economy, which has emerged as one of the country’s most powerful drivers of youth employment, cultural influence, and soft power.

President Tinubu’s State Visit is notable in several respects. He will be the first Nigerian leader to be honoured as a special guest of the British Royal Family since Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999. In an interesting historical symmetry, it was the then Prince Charles, now King Charles III, who represented the British Government and Queen Elizabeth II at the inauguration ceremony of President Olusegun Obasanjo on May 29, 1999. Then Prince Charles was among the visiting Heads of State and global leaders at Eagle Square in Abuja who witnessed the rebirth of Nigeria’s democratic era after sixteen years of uninterrupted military rule.

In a fitting tribute to that historic democratic transition, King Charles III will now play host to President Tinubu, an avowed democrat and one of the prominent figures of Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement, on a State Visit as the democratically elected leader of Nigeria.

It is important to state that the United Kingdom has been home to Nigerians for more than two centuries with an active and influential diaspora population currently estimated at over 500,000 people. This vibrant community represents one of the strongest bridges between the two nations. Nigerians in the diaspora contribute significantly to both economies through entrepreneurship, professional excellence, and remittances which contribute billions of dollars annually to Nigeria’s economy.

For higher education, the UK remains one of the most attractive destinations for Nigerian students. It was reported that over 53,000 Nigerians were enrolled in UK universities as of 2023. Equally, Nigeria remains one of the leading sources of international students in the UK with 36,839 study visas granted to Nigerians as of September 2025.

The growing Nigerian British community continues to distinguish itself across sports, literature, film, music, and public life. Global cultural figures of Nigerian heritage such as Sade Adu, Anthony Joshua, Bukayo Saka, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, John Boyega, renowned novelist Ben Okri, and political leaders like Kemi Badenoch continue to strengthen the cultural and historical ties that bind both countries together.

While in the United Kingdom, where he will hold bilateral engagements with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street and attend a private sector led business summit with Nigerian and British business leaders, President Tinubu will use the State Visit to further deepen economic cooperation and strengthen strategic partnerships with the government and people of the United Kingdom. He will present Nigeria’s reform story and highlight the vast investment opportunities emerging across key sectors such as mining, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, livestock, food processing, technology, and the creative economy.

More importantly, the visit represents an opportunity to advance a relationship that has evolved from shared history into a modern partnership built on investment, innovation, and mutual growth. As both nations navigate an increasingly competitive global economy, Nigeria and the United Kingdom are well positioned to translate their long-standing ties into a forward-looking alliance driven by enterprise, opportunity, and shared prosperity. It will also be an opportunity for both countries to explore how to strengthen the Commonwealth of Nations, in which they are heavily invested, to play a more effective and impactful role in global affairs at a time when the rule-based international order is under great threat with negative consequences for world peace, stability and progress.

More than six decades after Nigeria’s independence and decades after the earliest diplomatic exchanges between both nations, the relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom continues to evolve in ways that reflect the changing realities of the global economy. What began as a relationship defined by history has matured into one increasingly defined by opportunity. In that sense, President Tinubu’s visit is not only a reaffirmation of enduring ties. It is also a statement of intent about the future both countries seek to build together.

*Ajayi is Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media and Publicity

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The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, HFEA, on Thursday said that almost 21,000 babies were born from IVF in 2023, compared to 8,700 in 2000

The authors of the fertility regulator’s latest report wrote that “IVF births are making up a higher proportion of all UK births over time, increasing from 1.3 per cent in 2000 to 3.1 per cent in 2023.

“This means around one in 32 UK births in 2023 were via IVF roughly one child in every classroom compared to one in 43 in 2013.”

The HFEA said that its latest figures show the “changing landscape” of fertility care in the UK.

Overall, 52,400 patients had, more than 77,500 in vitro fertilization, IVF, cycles at UK fertility clinics in 2023.

While some 11 per cent of births to women aged 40 to 44 were a result of IVF, increasing from 4 per cent in 2000 and accounting for 0.5% per cent of all births, HFEA said.

The data also reveal a rise in the proportion of women freezing their eggs, rising from 4,700 in 2022 to 6,900 in 2023 but the HFEA said that the number of patients using their stored frozen eggs in treatment remains low.

Meanwhile the HFEA also said that in 2023, around 820 babies were born following donor insemination, DI, treatment.

The figure also shows a reduction in the number of IVF treatments funded by the NHS.

The proportion of NHS-funded IVF cycles declined from 35 per cent in 2019 to 27 per cent in 2023 in the UK, decreasing most in England, the HFEA said.

More than half of (54 per cent) of IVF cycles in Scotland were funded by the NHS in 2023, compared to 49 per cent in Northern Ireland; 33 per cent in Wales; and 24 per cent in England.

The HFEA also raised concerns about racial disparities in IVF.

It said that in recent years, Asian and black patients have had lower birth rates compared to white patients and those from a mixed ethnic background.

Julia Chain, chairwoman of the HFEA, said: “IVF is helping more people have babies including patients of different ages and family types.

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“One in 32 of all UK births are from IVF and 11 per cent of all UK births are to women aged 40-44 who had IVF.

“We are also seeing more single patients and female same-sex couples having IVF.

“These findings highlight the changing landscape of the UK fertility sector and how it could develop in the years to come.

“However, we are very concerned to see that black and Asian patients continue to have lower IVF birth rates compared to other patient groups, and our recent survey found that Asian and Black patients are less likely to report being satisfied with their fertility treatment.”

Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that the fertility rate in England and Wales in 2023 was 1.44 children per woman the lowest level on record.

Commenting on the HFEA data, a spokesperson from the fertility charity Fertility Network UK said: “This important report from the HFEA reflects how essential fertility treatment has become for growing families in the UK and underlines.

The spokesperson added that it was not just the scientific advances in fertility care, but also the profound social impact of helping people realise their dreams of parenthood.

“Delays in accessing treatment whether due to long GP referral times or inconsistent NHS funding can have a devastating emotional and biological impact.

“We call for fair and timely access to fertility services for all, wherever they live and whatever their background,” the spokesperson said.

Source: dpa/NAN

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The 48-team World Cup will adopt a 12-group format, increasing the total number of matches from 64 to 104 – the same as the expanded men’s World Cup in 2026 – and extending the tournament by one week.

The 2027 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Brazil, will have 32 teams.

The 2023 edition in Australia and New Zealand was the first to have 32 teams, up from 24 in the 2019 tournament hosted by France.

“This is not just about having 16 more teams playing in the FIFA Women’s World Cup but taking the next steps in relation to the women’s game in general,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement.

“More FIFA member associations have the chance to benefit from the tournament to develop their women’s football structures from a holistic point of view,” he said.

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The U.S. is poised to be named host of the 2031 Women’s World Cup as the only bid, making the third time the country will stage the tournament after previously hosting it in 1999 and 2003.

The United Kingdom is the sole bidder for the 2035 tournament.

Hosts for the 2031 and 2035 editions are yet to be ratified.

Although there are concerns that games could be one-sided with 48 teams, Infantino said the 2023 edition showed sides were closing the gap on the elite.

“The Women’s World Cup 2023, the first in which teams from all confederations won at least one game and teams from five confederations reached the knockout stage, among many other records, set a new standard for global competitiveness,” he added.

Source: NAN

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The Nigerian real estate market is one of the most dynamic and promising sectors in Africa. As the country continues to experience rapid urbanization and population growth, the demand for real estate, particularly in key cities, remains high. This article provides a comprehensive look at the current state of the Nigerian real estate market, including key trends, statistics, and the challenges it faces.

We will also compare the Nigerian system with other countries and provide recommendations to help Africa develop a more robust real estate sector.

Current state of the Nigerian real estate market

The Nigerian real estate market has shown resilience despite economic challenges. There is a steady demand for both residential and commercial properties. The residential market remains robust, driven by a growing population and increasing urban migration. In contrast, the commercial segment has seen mixed results, with demand for office spaces slightly impacted by changes in work patterns, including remote work.

Key factors influencing the market inflation and high construction costs

Inflation has been a significant factor affecting the real estate market in Nigeria. The cost of building materials has skyrocketed, making property development more expensive. This has, in turn, influenced property prices, making affordability a key concern for many prospective buyers.

Urbanization and Population Growth: Nigeria’s rapid urbanization is one of the key drivers of real estate demand. Cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt are experiencing significant population growth, leading to increased demand for housing and commercial properties.

Government Policies and Real Estate Regulations: The government’s ongoing reforms in land administration and real estate regulations are expected to create a more transparent environment for property transactions. Policies that focus on affordable housing development could also boost the market.

Technological Advancements: Technology is transforming Nigeria’s real estate market, with PropTech solutions making property transactions more accessible and transparent. Digital platforms offering virtual tours, property listings, and automated valuation models (AVMs) are growing in popularity.

Sustainable Development: Sustainability is becoming a key consideration for developers and homebuyers, driven by rising energy costs and environmental awareness. Renewable energy solutions and green building materials are increasingly being used in new housing projects.

Key trends in the Nigerian real estate market

Increasing Demand for Affordable Housing: Nigeria’s housing deficit, estimated at over 20 million units, continues to drive demand for affordable housing. Government initiatives, such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), are being implemented to deliver mass housing projects.

Urban Expansion into Suburban and Secondary Cities: With high urbanization rates, cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt are becoming overcrowded, driving real estate development into suburban and secondary cities like Ibadan, Abeokuta, Akure, and Uyo.

Tech-Driven Property Solutions: The adoption of smart home features such as automated lighting, security systems, and energy management is increasing among middle- and high-income buyers.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Housing Solutions: Developers are increasingly using locally sourced, eco-friendly materials to reduce costs and environmental impact. Solar panels, inverters, and energy-efficient appliances are becoming standard in new housing projects.

Impact of Infrastructure Development: Major infrastructure projects like railways and expressways are enhancing connectivity, boosting demand for suburban real estate.

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Shortfalls in the Nigerian System: Despite the promising trends, the Nigerian real estate market faces several challenges:

Land Ownership and Title Issues: One of the most significant challenges in the Nigerian real estate market is the issue of land ownership and title registration. The process of acquiring land and obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is often cumbersome and fraught with bureaucratic delays. This has led to numerous cases of land disputes and fraud.

High Cost of Construction: The high cost of construction materials, coupled with inflation, has made property development expensive. This has resulted in high property prices, making it difficult for many Nigerians to afford decent housing.

Inadequate Infrastructure: The lack of adequate infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and water supply, has hindered real estate development in many parts of the country. This has led to a concentration of development in a few urban centers, leaving many areas underdeveloped.

Limited Access to Financing: Access to affordable financing is a significant barrier for both developers and homebuyers.

High-interest rates and stringent lending conditions have made it difficult for many Nigerians to secure mortgages or loans for property development.

Regulatory Challenges: The regulatory environment for real estate in Nigeria is often seen as opaque and inconsistent. This has created uncertainty for investors and developers, making it difficult to plan and execute projects effectively.

Comparison with other countries

To understand the shortfalls in the Nigerian real estate market, it is helpful to compare it with other countries that have more developed real estate sectors.

United States: The real estate market in the United States is characterized by a well-developed mortgage system, transparent regulatory environment, and advanced infrastructure. The availability of long-term, low-interest mortgages has made homeownership accessible to a large segment of the population. Additionally, the regulatory environment is clear and consistent, providing confidence to investors and developers.

United Kingdom: The UK real estate market benefits from a robust legal framework that ensures clear property rights and efficient title registration. The government also provides various schemes to support affordable housing, such as the Help to Buy programme. The presence of well-developed infrastructure and access to affordable financing has further boosted the real estate market.

South Africa: South Africa’s real estate market is one of the most developed in Africa. The country has a well-established property rights system, efficient title registration, and a relatively transparent regulatory environment. The government has also implemented various initiatives to address housing affordability, such as the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) housing scheme.

Recommendations for a more robust solution

To address the challenges facing the Nigerian real estate market and develop a more robust sector, the following recommendations are proposed:

Streamline Land Ownership and Title Registration: The government should streamline the process of land ownership and title registration to reduce bureaucratic delays and eliminate fraud. This can be achieved through the use of technology, such as blockchain, to create a transparent and efficient land registry system.

Reduce Construction Costs: To make property development more affordable, the government should explore ways to reduce the cost of construction materials. This could include promoting the use of locally sourced materials and providing incentives for manufacturers to produce affordable building materials.

Invest in Infrastructure: The government should prioritize investment in infrastructure development, such as roads, electricity, and water supply, to support real estate development in underdeveloped areas.

Public-private partnerships can be leveraged to fund these projects

Improve Access to Financing: To make financing more accessible, the government should work with financial institutions to develop affordable mortgage products and provide incentives for banks to lend to the real estate sector. This could include reducing interest rates and relaxing lending conditions.

Enhance Regulatory Environment: The government should work to create a more transparent and consistent regulatory environment for real estate. This could include simplifying regulations, providing clear guidelines for developers, and ensuring that policies are consistently enforced.

Promote Sustainable Development: To address environmental concerns and reduce energy costs, the government should promote sustainable building practices. This could include providing incentives for developers to use renewable energy solutions and green building materials.

Leverage Technology: The adoption of PropTech solutions can make property transactions more accessible and transparent. The government should support the development of digital platforms for property listings, virtual tours, and automated valuation models.

Encourage Diaspora Investment: The Nigerian diaspora represents a significant source of investment for the real estate sector. The government should create policies and incentives to encourage diaspora Nigerians to invest in property development back home.

Conclusion

The Nigerian real estate market holds immense potential for growth and development. By addressing the challenges and implementing the recommendations outlined in this article, Nigeria can develop a more robust and sustainable real estate sector. This will not only provide affordable housing for its growing population but also drive economic growth and development. As we move towards 2025, it is crucial for all stakeholders, including the government, developers, investors, and the diaspora community, to work together to build a better future for Nigeria.

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The announcement was made on Wednesday by President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga.

Onanuga said Tinubu would spend the two weeks as a working vacation and a retreat to reflect on his administration’s economic reforms.

He added that the president would return to the country after the expiration of the leave.

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