The British High Com-missioner in Nigeria, Mr. Robert Dewar, has said Federal Government�s anti-corruption war will restore the confidence of the international community and create a great deal of opportunities for foreign investors in the country.
He, however, added that the rule of law must be upheld at all times.
Speaking at a meeting with media executives in Abuja yesterday, Dewar said Nigeria�s goal of being one of the world�s top 20 economies could be achieved �with the firm application of the rule of law, right policies, compliance with international standards and infrastructural development�.
He said Britain wholly supports President Umaru Musa Yar�Adua�s commitment to implement economic and electoral reforms to bring about transformation and positive changes in the country.
The revenue being generated by Nigeria�s oil deposits, he said, should affect the lives and living standards of the ordinary Nigerian, especially at the grass-roots level, which would restore stability to the troubled Niger Delta region.
According to the High Commissioner, �The United Kingdom considers Nigeria to be a strategic partner, especially in promoting world peace and security through its peacekeeping efforts for conflict resolution.�
He reiterated his country�s commitment to assist Nigeria in its anti-corruption war, especially with the stringent laws Britain already has in place against money laundering.
On visa applications by Nigerians, the High Commissioner who said the commission processes about 200,000 applications per annum, added that it was committed to maintaining an efficient visa service for legitimate Nigerian travelers.
He said: �Our visa operations in Abuja and Lagos have recently been restructured to improve service and cope with the continually rising demand.�
He commended British companies who had aided in the growth of Nigeria�s economy through significant investments.
Dewar admonished the firms to have high standards of social and environmental responsibility, as both countries have a commitment of working towards and achieving the country�s Millennium Development Goals.
Jan232008