LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has concluded a historic visit to Lagos, Nigeria, aimed at bolstering economic and cultural links between the UK and Africa’s most populous nation. The visit underscores Nigeria’s growing importance in the UK’s global trade and investment strategy, particularly in the burgeoning fintech, innovation, and creative sectors.
Mr. Khan led a trade delegation of 27 London-based companies specialising in fintech, enterprise technology, and sustainability. The delegation, supported by London & Partners, the Mayor’s growth agency, engaged with Nigerian policymakers, investors, and creatives through a series of high-level events designed to foster collaboration and unlock new business opportunities across the continent. This marks the first official trip by a sitting Mayor of London to sub-Saharan Africa, signifying London’s commitment to building long-term, cross-sector partnerships for inclusive growth and digital transformation.
During his engagements, Mayor Khan participated in a panel discussion at the “Bridging Borders: How London and Lagos Can Shape the Future of Global Tech” event, where he encouraged Nigerian tech businesses to consider investing in London. He also co-hosted the Lagos Canvas Reception with Mo Abudu at Ebony Life Place, celebrating Nigeria’s flourishing creative sector and seeking to deepen ties between the creative industry ecosystems of both cities. This aligns with the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), which aims to expand trade and open new opportunities in the creative economy, encompassing arts, fashion, music, and film.
Commenting on the visit, Mayor Khan stated, “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.” He highlighted Africa’s rapid population and economic growth, identifying “huge opportunities to deepen partnerships with London” across critical sectors.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter, affirmed the UK Government’s commitment, stating, “From trade to fintech and fashion, our collaboration is driving innovation and growth.” UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, added that the visit “marks an exciting moment for the UK’s relationship with countries across Africa and is a strong demonstration of our commitment to deepening our ties with the continent.”
Following his Lagos engagements, Mayor Khan is set to continue his trade mission with stops in Accra, Johannesburg, and Cape Town, continuing his advocacy for London as a hub for investment, innovation, and cultural exchange across the African continent.
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