By Nkiruka Nnorom
The UK has completed its first trade and investment mission to Nigeria since the recent state visit by President Bola Tinubu. It is focused on turning high level agreements into practical commercial opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Supported by the UK Department for Business and Trade and delivered by DMA Invest in partnership with the Nigeria Investment Promotion Council, NIPC, the two-day trade mission brought together 43 delegates from 30 British companies to build partnerships, deepen commercial engagement and pursue new opportunities across priority sectors with their Nigerian counterparts.
With trade between both countries now at a record ÂŁ8.1 billion, and Nigeria established as UKâs largest export market in Africa, the mission highlighted where UK expertise could add the more value to Nigeriaâs reform-driven economy.
Opportunities discussed spanned key sectors such as infrastructure; energy and power; water, environment and climate solutions; agriculture; finance and professional services; testing and certification standards; logistics and supply chains; and technology, including education, aviation and communications.
These sectors align closely with the priorities set out under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) and reflect areas where UK capability, high standards and long term partnership approaches are well matched to Nigeriaâs evolving market needs.
The mission also focused on challenging outdated perceptions of Nigeria, highlighting its shift towards a high-potential, reforming economy, and energising businesses around new commercial opportunities supported by an improving macroeconomic outlook. It encouraged UK and Nigerian firms to recognise complementary strengths and pursue new partnerships, reinforcing the message that both countries are open for business and natural partners for growth.
Dr Richard Montgomery, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, said:âThis trade mission is a clear signal of intent. As the first UK business delegation to Nigeria since the State Visit, it shows how we are turning strong political alignment into real commercial action and long term partnerships for businesses in both countries.
âBy bringing together UK companies and Nigerian partners across priority sectors and working closely with DMA Invest and the Nigeria Investment Promotion Council, we are backing ambition with delivery and making clear that the UK is committed, engaged and ready to do business with Nigeria for the long term.â
Aisha Rimi, Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, said: âThis trade mission represents a timely and strategic step in translating the renewed momentum from the UKâNigeria State Visit into tangible investment outcomes for Nigeria. At the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, we are focused on facilitating partnerships that align with our national priorities and unlock value across key sectors of the economy.â
Ronald Chagoury Jr. Vice-Chairman of Hitech and ITB, said: âAs long-standing investors and operators in Nigeriaâs infrastructure sector, Hitech and ITB are proud to support this UKâNigeria Trade Mission and its focus on delivering tangible commercial outcomes. The successful close of a $1 billion ports transaction, backed by UK Export Finance, reflects both our execution capability and the strength of international partnerships when aligned with national priorities. We see this as a pivotal step in advancing Nigeriaâs port infrastructure and a strong signal of confidence in the countryâs reform agenda under the Renewed Hope framework.â
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