“I Feel Perfectly Safe in Nigeria,” Says Boris Johnson During Owerri Visit

Boris Johnson said he felt “perfectly safe” during his visit to Nigeria, brushing aside concerns raised ahead of his trip to Owerri, where he delivered the keynote address at the Imo State Economic Summit hosted by Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Speaking at the event, Johnson noted he had seen warnings about possible security risks but chose to proceed with the visit. He told participants that everyone at the summit appeared at ease, praising the atmosphere and thanking the governor for his role in maintaining security.

He also applauded Uzodimma’s plan to provide round-the-clock electricity in Imo State, stressing that advances in artificial intelligence would be central to achieving reliable and sustainable power. Johnson described AI as a driving force for future development and commended the state’s efforts to prioritise clean energy.

Reflecting on longstanding ties between Nigeria and the UK, Johnson highlighted the exchange of talent, goods, and expertise between both countries. He joked about the flow of political leadership, saying the UK sends former prime ministers to Nigeria while receiving potential future leaders in return.

The summit drew a high-profile audience, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, attending on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Aliko Dangote, Finance Minister Wale Edun, and several governors.

Johnson’s comments come amid heightened concerns over Nigeria’s security climate. Recent mass abductions across multiple states, including the kidnapping of more than 300 students and teachers in Niger State, have renewed global attention on the country’s challenges. The situation intensified further after President Donald Trump issued a sharp warning accusing Nigeria of failing to safeguard vulnerable communities, especially Christians.