I’m sad leaving Nigeria — Outgoing British envoy, Laing

By: Leon Usigbe, Abuja

Outgoing British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Her Excellency Catriona Wendy Laing, has said that she is sad having to leave the country.

Speaking on Wednesday during a farewell visit to President Muhammadu Buhari at Presidential Villa, Abuja, after a four-and-a-half years tour of duty, she revealed her fascination with Nigeria, particularly the music, dance, and culture, saying she’s had “a fabulous time here.”

“I’m sad to be leaving,” a statement by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity) quoted her as saying.

The High Commissioner added: “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 8 years in office, saying he had done very well to hold the country together.

The President said the United Kingdom was a second home for many Nigerians, and relations between the two countries will continue to wax strong.

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

President Buhari said he looked forward to retirement in Daura, Katsina State, after handing over on May 29, reiterating: “I’ll be as far away from Abuja as possible.”

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

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