The Nigeria-Britain Association (N-BA) has restated its commitment to deepening the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. This declaration was made during the Association’s 56th Annual General Meeting held recently in Lagos, where members and partners from both countries gathered to review past activities and set plans for the year ahead.
Speaking at the meeting, the President of the Association, Sola Oyetayo, outlined several major achievements recorded over the past year. These included the successful celebration of Nigeria’s Independence Day in London, the well-attended Presidential Cocktail event, the Akintola Williams Youth Debate Competition, and the Annual Lecture Series that attracted top-level stakeholders.
Oyetayo paid glowing tribute to the late Akintola Williams, who was a longtime patron of the Association. He described Williams as a foundational figure whose legacy continues to shape the vision and credibility of the N-BA. Williams, widely regarded as Nigeria’s first chartered accountant, was known for his commitment to youth development and professional excellence.
In honour of his memory and to sustain the Association’s legacy of excellence, Oyetayo announced the appointment of former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, GCON, GCVO, as the new Patron. He also confirmed the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery CMG, as Vice Patron of the Association.
Other Vice Patrons mentioned during the AGM include Chief Olabintan Famutimi and Philip Hall OBE. Oyetayo said their continued support reflects the ongoing efforts to nurture the friendship between Nigeria and the UK.
One of the most notable moments of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Association and the British Council. This new partnership will provide members with better access to programmes, events, and internship opportunities, particularly for winners of the Akintola Williams Youth Debate.
The Association also signed a partnership agreement with ORÍKÌ, a Nigerian-owned beauty and wellness brand. As part of the deal, ORÍKÌ will offer special discounts and services to fully subscribed N-BA members, further promoting wellness and business linkages within the association.
Honorary Secretary of the Association, Tobi Asehinde, gave a report highlighting the significant growth in membership, especially among young professionals. He also mentioned the success of recent initiatives such as youth mentorship programmes, forums focused on environmental sustainability, and new collaborations with organisations based in the UK.
During the meeting, the Association conducted elections for its leadership for the 2025/2026 term. Sola Oyetayo was re-elected as President, with Tobi Asehinde maintaining his role as Honorary Secretary. Gboyega Olanbiwoninu was elected as Assistant Honorary Secretary, while Gafar Odubote emerged as the new Honorary Treasurer.
In his acceptance speech, Oyetayo thanked members for their continued trust and pledged to lead with the values of “The Big I.D.E.A.” – Inclusivity, Diversity, Empowerment, and Agility. He said the Association remains committed to advancing cultural exchange, leadership development, and mutual understanding between Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the broader Commonwealth.
According to him, the N-BA is not only a cultural and social bridge but also a platform for economic and professional empowerment. He added that the Association would continue to seek out meaningful partnerships and foster opportunities for youth and professionals in both countries.
The meeting ended on a high note with renewed energy and clear plans to further deepen the longstanding Nigeria-UK relationship.
