In a move towards bolstering security and stability in Africa, the UK Government has provided over £300 million for programs and peacekeeping efforts across the continent in 2023.
Baroness Lucy Neville-Rolfe, UK Minister of State, Cabinet Office, disclosed this during her visit to Nigeria, underlining the UK’s commitment to regional security cooperation.
“The United Kingdom and Nigeria are firm security and economic partners. I am proud that, through the CSSF, the UK has been able to play such a valuable role in bolstering Nigeria’s security,” said Baroness Neville-Rolfe during her visit.
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Highlighting Nigeria’s pivotal role in regional stability, the Minister emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing transnational challenges such as drug smuggling, cybercrime, and human displacement.
She stressed that by supporting partners in Nigeria and West Africa, the UK is also safeguarding its citizens.
Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, echoed these sentiments, expressing satisfaction with the strengthening UK-Nigeria partnership, particularly in security and stability. He affirmed the UK’s continuous support in addressing domestic and regional security concerns.
The UK’s commitment to Nigeria’s security system is evident through various initiatives, including investments in cybersecurity, defense cooperation, counter-terrorism, and human rights.
Over £15 million has been allocated to strengthen Nigeria’s security apparatus, resulting in significant achievements such as the detection and seizure of illegal drugs and the support of displaced persons in conflict-affected areas.
Furthermore, the UK’s investment extends to stabilizing communities in the Lake Chad Basin, benefiting over 11 million people affected by conflict. Efforts to combat cybercrime have also been intensified through initiatives like the Africa Joint Operations Against Cybercrime, leading to the arrest of suspected cyber criminals and the dismantling of illicit cyber networks.
The visit follows recent UK-Nigeria Security and Defense Partnership talks, underscoring the mutual commitment to addressing shared challenges. Neville-Rolfe reiterated the UK’s dedication to enhancing the existing partnership with Nigeria to tackle evolving security threats effectively in the years ahead.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with multifaceted security challenges, the UK’s sustained support is poised to play a crucial role in fostering peace and stability not only in Nigeria but across the broader African region.