FG, 30 UK Firms Move to Implement Tinubu’s Trade Deals after State Visit

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Investment Promotion Council (NIPC), has engaged experts from 30 United Kingdom companies to advance trade and investment agreements reached during President Bola Tinubu’s State Visit in March.

The development was disclosed in an email to Nairametrics by Ndidiamaka Eze, Senior Press and Public Affairs Officer at the British High Commission.

The engagement followed the UK’s first trade and investment mission to Nigeria since the State Visit, aimed at translating high-level agreements into practical business opportunities for companies in both countries.

What they are saying 

Officials from both countries highlighted strong interest across multiple sectors, reflecting growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

Discussions covered key sectors including infrastructure, energy and power, agriculture, finance, logistics, and technology.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, said the mission signals a commitment to turning political alignment into tangible commercial outcomes.

• “This 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.” 

He noted that the collaboration demonstrates the UK’s readiness to build long-term partnerships with Nigeria.

NIPC CEO, Aisha Rimi, stated that the engagement is focused on unlocking investment opportunities aligned with Nigeria’s economic priorities.

• “This trade mission represents a timely and strategic step in translating the renewed momentum from the UK–Nigeria State Visit into tangible investment outcomes for Nigeria.” 

She added that the strong participation from UK firms reflects increasing confidence in Nigeria as a leading investment destination in Africa.

Get up to speed 

The trade mission comes amid strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

• Bilateral trade between the two countries has reached a record £8.1 billion.
• Nigeria remains the UK’s largest export market in Africa.
• The mission aligns with priorities under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP).

It also aims to reposition Nigeria as a reform-driven and high-potential investment destination.

The initiative encouraged businesses from both countries to explore complementary strengths and form strategic partnerships.

More insights 

The two-day mission brought together 43 delegates from 30 British companies seeking to expand their footprint in Nigeria.

The engagement focused on building partnerships and deepening commercial relationships across priority sectors.

• It also aimed to address outdated perceptions about Nigeria’s business environment.
• Stakeholders highlighted opportunities created by ongoing economic reforms and improving macroeconomic conditions.
• The mission emphasised long-term collaboration and sustainable investment growth.

Participants noted that aligning UK expertise with Nigeria’s development priorities could unlock significant economic value.

What you should know 

Recent agreements between Nigeria and the UK underscore growing investment cooperation.

The Federal Government recently secured a £746 million financing deal with the UK.

The investment will fund upgrades to key ports, including Apapa and Tin Can Island in Lagos.

These ports handle over 70% of Nigeria’s imports and exports.

The project is expected to enhance trade efficiency and strengthen Nigeria’s logistics infrastructure.

The ongoing engagements signal a broader push to convert diplomatic relations into measurable economic outcomes for both countries.