The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its bold economic reforms, describing them as essential steps toward Nigeria’s long-term development.
Speaking on Thursday at the International Civil Service Conference in Abuja, Montgomery noted that while the reforms pose short-term difficulties for citizens, they are already yielding positive results.
He praised the Nigerian government’s political will to implement critical policies aimed at building a stronger economic foundation.
“In my two years as high commissioner, I’ve been deeply impressed by the resolve of Nigerian leaders to confront difficult issues and initiate far-reaching reforms,” Montgomery stated.
According to him, such actions are crucial for achieving sustainable growth and ensuring national progress.
“Though painful in the short term, they are already making an impact and are key to setting Nigeria on a stronger economic path,” Montgomery said while speaking at the International Civil Service Conference in Abuja on Thursday.
While he acknowledged that reforms alone cannot fix all of Nigeria’s institutional challenges, Montgomery emphasized their importance as a cornerstone for broader national development.
He called on public servants across all levels to play an active role in ensuring the benefits of the reforms reach everyday Nigerians.
“These reforms won’t solve every challenge faced by civil servants,” he noted, “but their success largely depends on the dedication and efficiency of the public sector in implementing them.”
Montgomery highlighted the vital role of integrity and performance within the civil service, stating that a capable and committed bureaucracy is essential to effective governance.
He also encouraged Nigeria to draw inspiration from countries like India, China, and Singapore, which have successfully navigated their own economic transitions through reforms and institutional strengthening.
