Presidency Defends Tinubu’s UK Trip, Says Nigeria Can’t Grow by Staying Home
Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has defended the president’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom.
He said the trip was aimed at boosting investment, jobs and stronger ties with international partners despite criticism from opposition figures over Tinubu’s frequent foreign travels.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that Tinubu had departed for the UK on Tuesday on a state visit at the invitation of King Charles III.
The two-day visit ended on Thursday.
It was described as one of the highest levels of diplomatic engagement hosted by the British monarchy and the first visit of such scale by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years.
The trip, however, drew criticism from opposition politicians, who questioned the president’s absence from the country at a time of worsening insecurity and economic hardship.
Responding in a post shared on X on Friday, Bwala said Tinubu’s engagement with the international community was essential to Nigeria’s development.
“Some people are saying: Why go to the UK? Look, I hope you all know that you don’t grow and develop Nigeria by sitting at home and waiting,” Bwala wrote.
“This visit is about opening doors: more investment, more jobs, and more opportunities for our people. His Majesty, King Charles, has shown a practical commitment to partner with Nigeria in areas of mutual trust.
“President Tinubu is making sure Nigeria is seen, heard, and respected on the world stage. That’s how you move a country forward, not by staying quiet.”
Bwala also spoke on the visit during an interview with the BBC on Wednesday.
He said the timing was important, noting that it gave Nigeria the chance to present its economic reform efforts to the global community.
“It is a long time coming. But I think the king chose the right time. At this time in Nigeria, we have a lot to tell the world of the effort we are making in putting the nation’s economy on a better trajectory,” he said.
He added that Nigeria was seeking to deepen economic reforms and strengthen security cooperation with global partners, especially the United Kingdom.
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