British High Commissioner, Laing Pays Farewell Visit To Buhari

The outgoing British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Wendy Laing, has paid a farewell visit to President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday.

Speaking during her visit to the Nigerian leader, Laing said she is sad to be leaving Africa’s most populous nation after a four-and-a-half years tour of duty.

The British envoy said she’s fascinated by Nigeria, particularly the music, dance, culture, adding that she had a fabulous time in the country.

She said: “I’m sad to be leaving. Nigeria is so much fun, I had a fabulous time here, and I’ll be back. I love the dance, the music, the culture.

“It’s been good to experience Nigeria. I’ve been to over 20 States, and I’ve told my successor to also do the same. I’ll be back, and still, travel wider.”

She congratulated President Buhari for a very successful eight years in office, saying he had done very well to hold the country together.

In his remarks, the President said the United Kingdom was a second home for many Nigerians, and relationship between the two countries will continue to wax strong.

He lauded the UK for cooperation on many fronts, particularly in the rebuilding of the North East, hitherto ravaged by insurgency.

Buhari said: “In fact, some wealthy Nigerians don’t feel complete till they’ve had a home in the UK.”

President Buhari said he looked forward to retirement in Daura, Katsina State, after handing over on May 29, reiterating that he will be as far away from Abuja as possible.