Nigeria’s engagement with the United Kingdom has ushered in a new phase of strategic diplomacy and strengthened security cooperation, marking what officials describe as a pivotal turning point in the country’s global positioning.
Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Public Communication and Orientation, Sunday Dare, said the President’s visit to the UK represents a deliberate and timely reset of bilateral relations, one that is anchored on shared history, mutual interests, and a renewed commitment to defence and security collaboration.
Speaking during an interview on Sky News, Dare emphasised that the visit goes beyond symbolism, describing it as a bold step toward revitalising longstanding ties while positioning Nigeria more prominently on the global stage.
“This visit is significant because it opens the door for a reset,” he said. “There are clear common threads in the messages from King Charles III and President Tinubu, our shared heritage, cultural connections, and Nigeria’s leadership role within the Commonwealth.”
Dare noted that deep rooted legal, historical, and demographic links, bolstered by a Nigerian population of about half a million in the UK, provide a strong foundation for expanded cooperation.
According to him, Nigeria is increasingly commanding global attention under President Tinubu’s leadership, transitioning from relative obscurity to a more assertive and visible role in international diplomacy.
He further highlighted a shift in Nigeria’s evolving relationship with the United States, noting that what could have degenerated into confrontation has instead matured into constructive engagement driven by quiet diplomacy and strategic outreach.
“We have moved from the possibility of confrontation to meaningful collaboration,” Dare said, attributing the shift to President Tinubu’s behind the scenes engagement and pragmatic leadership style.
On security, Dare pointed to growing international support for Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts, including targeted actions against terrorist factions and expanded logistical and advisory assistance from global partners.
He explained that recent U.S. operations against the Lakurawa faction, linked to Boko Haram splinter groups, underscore a broader framework of cooperation, which now prioritises intelligence sharing, logistics, and on ground advisory support rather than sustained airstrikes.
Despite recent incidents, including attacks in parts of the North East, Dare maintained that Nigeria’s security forces remain firmly in control and are intensifying operations to dismantle terrorist networks.
“The President has made it clear, Nigeria will never surrender to terrorists,” he stated. “As military operations advance and insurgents are dislodged, they attempt to relocate, leading to sporadic attacks. But our forces are responding decisively.”
He revealed that recent military actions in Borno State led to the elimination of dozens of terrorist leaders, further demonstrating the government’s resolve.
Addressing international concerns over alleged religious persecution, Dare firmly rejected such narratives, stressing that terrorism in Nigeria is not driven by religion but by complex transnational dynamics.
“This is not a religious conflict,” he said. “Both Christians and Muslims are victims. What we are dealing with is transnational terrorism, worsened by porous borders, arms trafficking from the Sahel, and instability in regions like Libya.”
He concluded by underscoring the strategic importance of Nigeria’s alliances with global powers, particularly the UK and the US, in tackling evolving security threats.
According to him, one of the key outcomes of the visit will be a strengthened defence and security cooperation agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, further cementing a partnership critical to regional and global stability.
“The fight against terrorism is global,” Dare said. “And Nigeria must continue to work closely with strong allies. That is why this visit is not just important, it is consequential.”
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