Outgoing British high commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, says Nigeria is fun and that she is sad to be leaving the country.

Ms Laing stated that she was fascinated by Nigeria, particularly the music, dance, and culture, revealing she had “a fabulous time here.”

Garba Shehu, President Muhammadu Buhari’s media aide, in a statement, said the British envoy spoke on Wednesday during a farewell visit to Mr Buhari at State House, Abuja, after spending four-and-a-half years in the country.

“I’m sad to be leaving. 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,” said Ms Laing. “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.”

According to the statement, she congratulated Mr Buhari for eight successful years in office, saying he had done well to hold the country together.

The president said the UK is a second home for many Nigerians, and relations between the two countries would continue to wax strong.

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

The Nigerian president said he looked forward to retirement in Daura after handing over on May 29, reiterating, “I’ll be as far away from Abuja as possible.”

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

(NAN)