The Director-General of the Progressive Institute (TPI), Dr. Lanre Adebayo, has described  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s planned State visit to the United Kingdom as a strong signal that Nigeria’s global standing is improving.

Adebayo spoke on Thursday in Abuja during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between TPI, Progressive Local Government Chairmen Forum, Jade and Jayden Services Limited, and other critical stakeholders of the party

He noted that the visit — coming more than three decades after a similar high-level engagement by a Nigerian President — reflects renewed international confidence in Nigeria’s leadership and reform agenda.

The UK, one of Nigeria’s oldest diplomatic partners, has historically played a key role in trade, security cooperation, and education initiatives. The visit is expected to deepen bilateral ties, expand trade, and attract investment opportunities, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria–UK relations.

According to Adebayo, this visit signals that Nigeria is reclaiming its prominence in bilateral and multilateral engagements.

“The invitation to President Tinubu demonstrates that Nigeria is being recognised once again as a serious global partner,” he said. “It underscores the growing relevance of our country in diplomacy, economic cooperation, and security partnerships.”

Adebayo attributed the development to policy decisions taken by the Tinubu administration, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy, which he described as a bold but necessary reform.

He said the subsidy removal has freed up significant fiscal resources, reduced pressure on public finances, curtailed fuel smuggling, and enabled increased allocations to states and local government councils.

“The resources previously tied to subsidy payments are now being redirected to infrastructure, social investments, and support for sub-national governments,” he stated.

He also cited the operationalisation of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as part of broader reforms, noting that it has expanded access to tertiary education for hundreds of thousands of students.

The TPI boss referenced the International Monetary Fund’s positive assessment of Nigeria’s reform programme, saying it has strengthened investor confidence and repositioned the country within the global financial system.

“Investor confidence has improved significantly. Companies that left the country before this administration are returning, while new investors are showing interest,” he said.

On domestic policy outcomes, Adebayo said infrastructural projects that had long been part of national development plans are now receiving renewed attention, while reforms in agriculture and supply chains are contributing to improved food production and gradual stabilisation of prices.

While acknowledging ongoing security challenges, he commended efforts to combat insecurity and banditry, including enhanced collaboration with international partners such as the UK and the United States.

He urged Nigerians to appreciate the sacrifices of military personnel and security agencies.

“The fight against insecurity is making progress. Responses are improving, and stability is gradually returning to affected communities,” he said.

Adebayo explained that TPI’s mandate is to document government policies, track progress, and provide a platform for collaboration among the private sector, development partners, and the media.

He disclosed plans to convene a national retreat on policy communication to deepen public understanding of reforms.

Chairman Progressive Local Government Chairmen Forum, Dr. Mustapha Jibrin, called on party leaders to propagate the policies and achievements of the Tinubu administration, assuring continued support for the Institute’s objectives.

Also speaking, Managing Director of Jade and Jayden Services Limited, James Williams, said the partnership with TPI would support transparent reporting of reform progress and strengthen institutional credibility.