OWERRI: Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has downplayed concerns about insecurity in Nigeria, saying he felt “perfectly safe” during his visit to Owerri, Imo State.
Johnson made the remark on Thursday while delivering the keynote address at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025, hosted by Governor Hope Uzodimma.
According to him, despite warnings about security risks, he chose to attend the summit and was impressed by the atmosphere.
He said:
When I decided to come to Owerri, I read some things saying there may be security problems in Nigeria.
And I said, well, I am going anyway. And let me ask you: do you feel safe here today? Yes, we all feel safe.
And I feel perfectly safe. Thank you, Governor, for what you are doing.
Johnson also praised Governor Uzodimma’s efforts to provide 24-hour electricity in Imo State, describing artificial intelligence as a key tool for achieving reliable and sustainable power supply.
He added that AI will play a colossal role in shaping the future of clean energy and commended the state’s push for technological development.
The former PM highlighted the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, noting the exchange of skilled professionals between both nations. He humorously remarked:
We send you former UK prime ministers, and you send us future UK prime ministers in the form of Kemi Badenoch.
The summit was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima (representing President Tinubu), former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Aliko Dangote, Finance Minister Wale Edun, and several state governors.
Johnson’s comments come at a time Nigeria is facing heightened security challenges, with recent mass abductions across several states drawing global attention.
