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A Historic Visit to Lagos: Strengthening UK-Nigeria Ties
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, recently completed a landmark visit to Lagos, with the aim of reinforcing the relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria through collaborative efforts in fintech, innovation, and the creative industries. This trip marked the first official visit by a sitting mayor of London to sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the city’s dedication to fostering long-term, cross-sector partnerships that promote inclusive growth, digital transformation, and cultural exchange.
Khan led a delegation of 27 London-based companies specializing in fintech, enterprise technology, and sustainability. The group was supported by London & Partners, the city’s growth agency, under the leadership of Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth Howard Dawber. During the visit, the delegation engaged with Nigerian policymakers, investors, and creatives in high-level meetings aimed at unlocking trade and investment opportunities across the continent.
“I am delighted to be visiting Nigeria and Africa this week, the first visit of its kind by a mayor of London to bang the drum for the capital and further develop the strong ties between our countries,” Khan said in an email.
Following his time in Lagos, the Mayor continued his historic trade mission with stops in Accra, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. His goal is to promote London as a hub for investment, innovation, and cultural exchange. He emphasized that Africa has the world’s fastest-growing population and is experiencing significant economic growth across many of its economies. Over the next decade, there are substantial opportunities to deepen partnerships with London, particularly in sectors such as finance, education, health, creative tech, and sustainability.
Fostering Innovation and Collaboration
Khan’s engagements in Lagos began with his participation in a panel discussion at the “Bridging Borders: How London and Lagos Can Shape the Future of Global Tech” event. During the discussion, he highlighted how London and Lagos can jointly shape the future of global innovation and encouraged Nigerian tech businesses to invest in London. He also spoke about the important role that Londoners of African heritage have played in making London one of the greatest cities in the world.
“Londoners of African heritage have played, and continue to play, a huge role in making London the greatest city in the world, and this trip is an opportunity to celebrate our shared heritage, history, and culture with the African continent, as we build a better and fairer city for everyone.”
Lagos has emerged as the undisputed tech and fintech capital of Africa, leading the continent in startup activity, funding, global recognition, scale, policy support, and economic influence. According to StartupList Africa, 503 active fintech startups operate in Lagos, more than double the number in its nearest African competitor. This firmly establishes Lagos as the continent’s fintech capital.
Building Economic and Cultural Ties
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, remarked on the significance of the Mayor’s visit, stating that it underscores the UK Government’s commitment to strengthening economic and cultural ties with Nigeria. He noted that collaboration between the UK and Nigeria spans various sectors, including trade, fintech, and fashion, and is driving innovation and growth.
“Through the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, we’re committed to unlocking new opportunities that benefit both our economies, and this visit is a powerful step forward in that journey of inclusive growth.”
UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, echoed these sentiments, calling the Mayor’s visit an exciting moment for the UK’s relationship with countries across Africa. He emphasized that strengthening trade, investment, and cultural ties is crucial for shared economic growth and for building long-term partnerships rooted in respect and open opportunities for all.
A Vision for the Future
As the visit concluded, it became clear that the collaboration between London and Nigeria is not only about economic growth but also about creating a foundation for sustainable development and cultural exchange. The discussions held during the trip laid the groundwork for future initiatives that could benefit both regions, especially in areas like fintech, innovation, and the creative industries.
With the continued efforts of leaders like Sadiq Khan, the partnership between the UK and Nigeria is set to grow stronger, paving the way for new opportunities and mutual prosperity.
