Nigeria-Britain Association formed in 1969 has pledged its support in the strengthening of ties between both countries.
Speaking at the association’s 50 years anniversary themed ‘Reconnection: Old Ties New Ways,’ its president, Shola Tinubu, said the association had a major role to play in strengthening the ties that bind UK and Nigeria.
“I believe the ties that bind the UK and Nigeria – friendship, cultural, linguistic, historical connections – will only get stronger not weaker in the next 50 years and we as an Association has a major role to play,” he said.
Tinubu listed the association’s key objectives to include encouraging the exchange of culture and building of relationships between Nigeria and Britain; engaging in sponsorship for social causes and general public good and building working relationships with government, private enterprises and enjoying reputational benefits.
The association is also keen to put in place a long-term business plan for growth and expansion, in line with the recently developed Carter Charter, he said, saying this will include expansion of its membership base and development of strategies to increase funding.
In her speech, commissioner for tourism, arts and culture, Lagos State, Olufunke Adebolu, advised the association to build on the strength it had established over 50 years ago.
One of the old members of the association, Bintan Famotimi, who joined the association 32 years ago, clarified that the membership of the association was not only for Nigerians but other nationals of the Commonwealth.
