*Meets Governor, traditional leaders, CSOs to explore areas of collaboration

The recently appointed British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, was in Enugu State between June 27 and 28 of June for high-level discussions with the state governor and key stakeholders in the state government, civil society, business and traditional leaders.

In the course of the two-day visit, the High Commissioner visited the State Governor, Dr. Peter Mba and both discussed the 20-year partnership that had existed between Enugu State and the then UK’s Department for International Development, now known as the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.

They also explored areas of better collaboration on how to attract investment, boost trade and create more economic opportunities.

During his stay in Enugu, the High Commissioner was said to have met with the Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council and Chairman, Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu, who briefed the High Commissioner on efforts of traditional institutions in the South East in building bridges of peace, order, security and welfare of the people of Enugu State.

High Commissioner also met with the President, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

Iwuanyanwu and other members of the Ohaneze Ndigbo shared their views on the investment opportunities and business environment in the South East as well as the potential of the agricultural sector to create more opportunities for the people of the region.

The High Commissioner also called on the former Enugu State Governor, Sullivan Chime, who he discussed the current trends in Nigerian politics, geo-politics and the opportunities in the South East.

In Enugu, the High Commissioner met with representatives of civil society organizations who gave a run down on some of the opportunities and challenges in the state. He emphasized how the challenges can only be addressed through strong and open dialogue between the state and civil society.

In advancing indigenous businesses, Montgomery visited the Innoson Plant in Enugu, where the management team took him on a tour of their premises.

At the end of the visit, the High Commissioner said: “Being here in Enugu has helped me see first-hand, the creative energy and enterprising spirit of its people. The UK is in full support of all efforts to bring economic prosperity to all of Nigeria including Enugu State. I hope we can take forward a range of work to boost our partnership with the state.”