The United Kingdom and Nigeria have pledged to strengthen their economic partnership by bolstering Nigeria’s national quality infrastructure, officials announced on Monday.
The initiative, under the Standards Partnership Programme (SPP) – Phase II, aims to dismantle trade barriers and enhance export competitiveness. The programme, backed by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), focuses on improving standards, accreditation, and testing services in Nigeria.
The move comes as both nations seek to increase trade and investment, aligning with the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP).
Focus on Quality
A key component of the programme is the implementation of Nigeria’s National Quality Policy (NNQP). Recent workshops in Lagos and Abuja brought together public and private sector stakeholders to discuss capacity building and the crucial role of metrology – the science of measurement – in ensuring product quality.
Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), speaking in Abuja, emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to quality-driven economic growth. “A strong National Quality Infrastructure is essential for Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda,” he said. “This partnership with the UK is a major step forward.”
Osita Aboloma, Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Quality Council (NQC), highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating that an effective quality infrastructure would boost the competitiveness of Nigerian products in global markets.
Data-Driven Approach
Officials stressed the need for a data-driven approach to quality policy implementation. This includes improving metrology, accreditation, conformity assessments, inspections, and testing to ensure Nigerian exports meet international standards.
Dr Simeon Umukoro, Trade Market Access Lead of the UK Department for Business and Trade, reiterated the UK’s support for Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts. “The UK and Nigeria remain strategic partners in trade and investment,” he said. “By improving Nigeria’s National Quality Infrastructure, we are unlocking new opportunities to drive innovation, competitiveness, and economic growth for both nations.”
Strategic Partnership
The UK is Nigeria’s 38th largest trading partner. The SPP programme aims to:
- Increase UK/Nigeria exports through aligned industrial and machinery standards.
- Enhance regulatory cooperation under the ETIP.
- Support Nigeria’s role as the Digital Trade Champion under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Since its launch in June 2024, the SPP programme has been strengthening Nigeria’s quality infrastructure through legislative, standardisation, and accreditation support.
Both nations have affirmed their commitment to advancing trade competitiveness and industrial growth, laying the groundwork for sustainable economic development.
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