Nigeria, UK Forge Bold Alliance to Revolutionize Creative Industries

In a groundbreaking move poised to reshape cultural and economic landscapes, the UK and Nigeria have officially launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group under the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP).

This ambitious initiative marks a pivotal milestone in deepening bilateral ties and unlocking unprecedented growth within the creative sectors of both nations.

The event in London, paired with a high-level match-making session for creative industry leaders, signaled the start of a robust platform for cross-border collaborations.

Florence Eshalomi MP, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the Working Group, emphasized the transformative power of cultural collaboration.

“Today marks a significant moment as we launch the UK-Nigeria Creatives Working Group. Our nations share a rich cultural bond and a deep belief in the transformative power of creativity, through music, film, fashion, and arts,” she stated.

“This initiative, rooted in our landmark Enhanced Trade & Investment Partnership, will drive stronger trade ties, foster deeper collaboration, and unlock the full potential of our creative industries.”

From Nigeria, Mr. Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture and Co-Chair of the Group, underscored the global impact of Nigeria’s creative economy.

“Nigeria’s creative economy is a global force, driven by our storytellers, musicians, designers, and digital innovators. However, to unlock the full potential of this sector, we need strategic investment and support not just in talent, but in the institutions and infrastructure that will sustain long-term growth.”

Prince Baba Agba, Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Creativity, highlighted the importance of leveraging UK expertise.

“The UK’s creative industries stand as a global benchmark for institutional excellence, market distribution, and innovation. We are eager to tap into your expertise for meaningful partnerships. This Working Group isn’t just about discussions – it’s about taking concrete actions that will yield tangible outcomes for creators, businesses, and industry stakeholders on both sides.”

Adedayo Ayoade, Product Lead at Gbedu Labs and a key voice in Nigeria’s music industry, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The future of Nigeria’s music industry lies in live experiences, innovation, and global collaborations. The launch of the Creative Industries Technical Working Group represents a significant first step towards bridging cultures and amplifying the voices of the next generation.”

The Working Group’s mandate is clear: to drive sustainable economic growth by fostering innovation, enhancing job creation, and broadening market access.

Roadmap to 2025
A ratified Terms of Reference and joint workplan outline aggressive milestones:

• Skills Surge: UK-Nigeria talent exchanges in film production, music royalties management, and AI-driven design.
• Investment Pipeline: Tackling Nigeria’s infrastructure gaps in studios, streaming platforms, and fashion manufacturing.
• Policy Push: Harmonizing copyright laws and visa processes for creatives.

This transcontinental creative pact transcends diplomacy—it’s a financial and cultural moonshot. With Nigeria’s youth-driven innovation and the UK’s financial clout, the alliance positions both nations to dominate the $2.3 trillion global creative economy.

As deals emerge from London’s matchmaking summit, industries brace for a new wave of Afro-inspired films, fusion fashion lines, and gaming empires.

With Nigeria’s creative economy generating over $15 billion annually and the UK’s sector contributing £126 billion pre-pandemic, the partnership eyes a fusion of Nigeria’s explosive cultural influence and Britain’s institutional expertise.

Key focus areas include streamlining market access, scaling infrastructure, and co-developing projects across film, music, design, advertising, and gaming.