Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson concluded a notable visit to Nigeria on Thursday, offering strong reassurance to foreign investors and countering long-standing narratives about insecurity in the country.
Speaking in Owerri, the Imo State capital, Johnson stated that he felt “perfectly safe” throughout his visit, a direct contrast to the warnings and negative security reports he had received before travelling.
Johnson attended the 2025 Imo State Economic Summit, where he addressed an audience of investors, policymakers, and business leaders. His presence at the summit was itself symbolic, given the hesitations many international visitors express about travelling to some parts of Nigeria. Johnson revealed that he had been cautioned extensively prior to his trip, but insisted that his first-hand experience contradicted those concerns. He asked the audience whether they felt safe at the event and, without hesitation, affirmed that he did.
Beyond security concerns, Boris Johnson shifted attention to Imo State’s development ambitions under Governor Hope Uzodimma. He praised the administration’s focus on infrastructure and economic modernization, particularly plans to provide 24-hour electricity across the state. Johnson described reliable power supply as foundational for economic growth and positioned it as part of a broader strategy to unlock new opportunities for industry and investment.
The former UK prime minister also emphasized the growing role of technology, especially Artificial Intelligence, in transforming economies. He highlighted AI-driven solutions for clean, sustainable energy and argued that technology would shape the next phase of global economic competition. According to him, regions like Imo State, with clear development goals and a willingness to adopt advanced technologies, could benefit significantly from this shift.
Johnson referenced the longstanding economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, noting the exchange of professionals and the potential for deeper cooperation. His remarks suggested that Nigeria remains an important partner in trade, innovation, and human-capital exchange, particularly as it continues to refine its policies and investment frameworks.
For investors abroad, Johnson’s visit presented a nuanced message. While Nigeria’s security challenges remain real and unevenly distributed across regions, his positive experience underscored the importance of distinguishing between general national narratives and the conditions within specific states or sectors. His comments may encourage stakeholders to re-examine preconceived notions, identify regions with improving stability, and explore emerging opportunities in infrastructure, technology, and energy.
Johnson’s participation in the Imo State Economic Summit, combined with his public expression of confidence, may help shift international perception if paired with sustained improvements in governance, infrastructure, and safety.
For Nigeria, such endorsements have the potential to attract renewed global interest but long-term progress will depend on consistent reforms that translate into measurable improvements for citizens and investors alike.
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