Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has publicly dismissed widespread international security concerns about Nigeria, declaring that he feels "perfectly safe" in the country. Johnson made this assertion while delivering a keynote address at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri on Thursday, December 4.
Contradicting International Narratives
Johnson revealed that he had read numerous security advisories before his trip to Nigeria but chose to travel regardless. He directly challenged these warnings based on his personal experience in Imo State.
"When I decided to come to Owerri, I read some things, and people were saying, 'There may be some security problems in Nigeria.' Have you heard that? And I said, 'Well, I am going to go anyway,'" Johnson stated. Addressing the audience, he asked, "And let me ask you: do you feel safe here today in this conference? Yes, we all feel safe. And I feel perfectly safe."
He emphasized that his firsthand observations contradicted the often negative portrayal of Nigeria's security situation in foreign media, highlighting the nation's economic potential, innovation, and skilled workforce as its true strengths.
Praise for Uzodimma's Vision and UK-Nigeria Ties
During his speech, Johnson commended Governor Hope Uzodimma's focus on economic transformation, particularly through achieving a stable electricity supply. He linked this ambition directly to the future of technology.
"Your focus on electricity is completely right. What is the future? The future is AI. For clean, sustainable electricity—and because of AI—it’s going to be colossal," Johnson said, congratulating the governor on his efforts for Imo and Nigeria.
Johnson also celebrated the robust historical and professional connections between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He noted the UK's exports of pharmaceuticals and financial services, while humorously acknowledging Nigeria's significant contributions.
"I am very proud of what we export to Nigeria. And you send us so much in return... We send you former United Kingdom prime ministers, and you send us future United Kingdom prime ministers in the form of Kemi Badenoch," he joked, referencing the British-Nigerian politician.
Summit Attracts High-Profile Attendance
The high-level event, hosted by Governor Uzodimma, saw attendance from several prominent national and international figures. Key attendees included:
- Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu.
- Former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
- Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.
- Finance Minister Wale Edun.
- Numerous state governors.
Johnson's comments arrive at a sensitive time for Nigeria's international image regarding security. They come amidst renewed global scrutiny, including recent critical statements from former US President Donald Trump concerning the protection of vulnerable communities within the country. The Tinubu administration, through Special Adviser Daniel Bwala, has acknowledged security challenges while asserting that far-reaching decisions are being taken, including plans to expose terrorism financiers.
