5th December, 2025
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has reassured global investors about Nigeria’s safety and investment potential, describing the country as perfectly secure during his visit to Owerri, Imo State capital, on Thursday.
Speaking at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025, Johnson addressed concerns about Nigeria’s security situation head-on, telling participants he deliberately ignored warnings before making the trip.
“When I decided to come to Owerri, I read some things, and there were people saying, ‘There may be some security problems in Nigeria.’ I said, ‘Well, I am going to go anyway.’ Do you feel safe here today in this conference? Yes, we all feel safe. And I feel perfectly safe. Thank you, Governor, for what you are doing,” the former Prime Minister stated.
Johnson praised Governor Hope Uzodimma for his drive to provide 24-hour electricity for the people of Imo State as part of efforts to achieve economic transformation. He emphasized that artificial intelligence will be crucial for achieving sustainable power, describing AI as the cornerstone of future energy solutions.
The former British leader highlighted the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, noting the continuous exchange of professionals and resources between both nations. He stated that while the UK exports pharmaceuticals, automotive parts and other economic items, Nigeria sends brilliant doctors, nurses, technicians, and tech geniuses, among others.
In a lighthearted moment, Johnson praised Nigeria’s global influence, referencing Kemi Badenoch, the British-Nigerian politician who currently serves as Leader of the UK Conservative Party.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event, declared that Imo State offers prime investment opportunities that can attract global capital. He described Africa as the next frontier for economic growth, noting that as Asian economies mature, the continent stands ready to welcome serious investors.
“Imo is not just ready for investment, Imo is prime for transformation. Imo is open for business; Nigeria is open for business. The Asian Tigers are ageing, Africa, as a young continent, is the next destination,” Shettima said.
The summit attracted prominent guests including Joseph Boakai, President of Liberia, Ban Ki-moon, former United Nations Secretary-General, Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, and Benedict Oramah, former President of African Export–Import Bank.
Joseph Boakai, President of Liberia, drew parallels between his country and Imo State, highlighting their shared focus on palm oil production and similar demographic profiles. He stressed the importance of innovation and strategic partnerships in driving economic development.
Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Mauritius’ first female President, described Nigeria as a powerhouse of talent and resources, expressing commitment to supporting Imo State’s renewable energy initiatives.
Ban Ki-moon, former United Nations Secretary-General, emphasized the need for Africa to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, commending Governor Uzodimma for his investments across multiple sectors including education, infrastructure, and digitalization.
Governor Uzodimma declared that Imo State has moved beyond preparation to actual readiness for transformative investments. He outlined the infrastructure, security measures, and business-friendly policies his administration has put in place to attract serious investors.
“Imo is no longer rising, Imo has risen. When opportunity meets investment, what happens? Business happens. Business that transforms. Imo is ready to harvest your investments,” Governor Uzodimma said.
The two-day summit, themed “Unlocking Imo’s Economic Potential: Partnership, Investment and Innovation,” marks the first such gathering since the state’s creation nearly 50 years ago.