By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communication, Sunday Dare, on Sunday said the United Kingdom should have offered a more balanced voice during global debates on alleged religious persecution in Nigeria. Dare made the remark on his X platform ahead of the planned visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to London on Tuesday.
UK’s Historical Ties With Nigeria
Dare noted that the United Kingdom has long maintained deep political, economic and institutional ties with Nigeria.
According to him, these strong connections place Britain in a position to offer informed perspectives during global conversations about Nigeria.
However, Dare observed that London sometimes appears distant when contentious narratives about Nigeria emerge internationally.
He stressed that the UK understands Nigeria’s political and social dynamics better than many countries.
Need for Balanced Global Narratives
Furthermore, Dare said international debates on alleged religious persecution highlight the need for credible and balanced voices.
He explained that measured intervention from Britain could help calm tensions and prevent speculation from shaping global perception.
According to him, such engagement would strengthen trust and deepen diplomatic cooperation between both countries.
Tinubu’s Visit Beyond Diplomatic Formalities
Dare also emphasised that the upcoming visit by President Tinubu should go beyond routine diplomatic engagements.
“When President Tinubu arrives in London, he is not simply visiting a former colonial capital,” Dare said.
“He is engaging a nation whose financial markets, diaspora networks, universities and security institutions remain closely linked with Nigeria’s trajectory.”
Britain as Gateway to Global Systems
Moreover, Dare compared the importance of Britain to Nigeria’s recent diplomatic engagement with Türkiye.
He said President Tinubu previously positioned Nigeria within key global trade corridors during that engagement.
Similarly, Dare described Britain as a gateway into major financial, technological and diplomatic systems worldwide.
Therefore, he said stronger collaboration could help Nigeria integrate more effectively into these global networks.
Opportunity to Redefine Nigeria-UK Relations
Dare added that the London visit presents an opportunity for both nations to redefine their partnership.
He urged leaders in both countries to pursue deeper cooperation that supports mutual economic and strategic interests.
“The task before both countries now is to ensure that the bridge built by history becomes a highway to the future,” he said.
