Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has expressed his sense of security during his visit to Nigeria, contradicting negative reports he had encountered prior to his trip. Speaking at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri, the state capital, Johnson acknowledged that he had read about potential security concerns in Nigeria, but decided to visit nonetheless.
Johnson addressed the audience, saying, “When I decided to come to Owerri, I read some things, and there were people saying, ‘There may be some security problems in Nigeria.’ And I said, ‘Well, I am going to go anyway.'” He then asked the attendees if they felt safe at the conference, to which he responded, “Yes, we all feel safe. And I feel perfectly safe. Thank you, Governor, for what you are doing.”
The former Prime Minister also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for his efforts to provide 24-hour electricity to the people of Imo State, a key aspect of the state’s economic transformation. Johnson emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence in achieving this vision, describing it as the future. He highlighted the potential of AI to drive economic growth and development in the region.
The Imo State Economic Summit 2025 aims to promote economic development and investment in the state. Governor Uzodimma’s administration has been working to improve the state’s infrastructure, including the provision of reliable electricity, to attract businesses and investors. Johnson’s visit and endorsement of the state’s efforts are expected to boost confidence in the region’s economic potential.
The use of artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly important in driving economic growth and development in Africa. As the continent continues to develop its infrastructure and economies, the role of AI is expected to expand, enabling governments and businesses to leverage technology to achieve their goals. Johnson’s comments highlight the potential of AI to support economic transformation in Nigeria and beyond.
