The United Kingdom and Nigeria have officially launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group, a strategic initiative under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP). The move, announced in London, aims to bolster collaboration between the two nations’ creative sectors and unlock new economic opportunities.
According to a statement from the British High Commission, the launch coincided with a matchmaking event connecting UK and Nigerian creative industry leaders. The initiative is designed to foster cross-border partnerships, drive innovation, and support sustainable economic growth in key creative sub-sectors, including Film and TV, Music, Fashion and Design, Architecture, Advertising, and Gaming.
A significant outcome of the event was the agreement on a Terms of Reference and a joint work plan for 2025, setting the strategic direction for the Working Group’s activities. The partnership prioritizes cultural exchange and industry collaboration, with the goal of driving long-term growth, expanding employment opportunities, and enhancing creative innovation in both countries.
Industry Leaders Emphasize Impact
Speaking at the launch, Florence Eshalomi MP, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the Working Group, highlighted the deep cultural ties between the two nations:
“Our countries share a strong belief in the transformative power of creativity—whether in music, film, fashion, or the arts. This initiative under the Enhanced Trade & Investment Partnership (ETIP) will strengthen trade relations, foster collaboration, and unlock the immense potential of our creative industries.”
From Nigeria, Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture and Co-Chair of the Working Group, emphasized the global influence of Nigeria’s creative sector:
“From Nollywood to Afrobeats, fashion to gaming, our industries are shaping global culture and commerce. But to fully realize this potential, we need strategic investment—not just in talent but in the infrastructure that supports long-term growth.”
Driving Innovation and Economic Growth
Representing the Nigerian delegation, Prince Baba Agba, Special Assistant to the President on Creativity, stressed the importance of leveraging UK expertise to build stronger industry partnerships:
“The UK’s creative industries set a global benchmark for institutional support, market distribution, and innovation. This Working Group isn’t just about discussions—it’s about delivering tangible results for creators, businesses, and stakeholders.”
Similarly, Adedayo Ayoade, Product Lead at Gbedu Labs, highlighted the potential impact on Nigeria’s booming music industry:
“The future of Nigerian music lies in live experiences, digital innovation, and global collaborations. This initiative provides a vital platform to bridge cultures and amplify the voices of the next generation.”
The launch event, attended by government officials and creative industry leaders from both nations, marks a major milestone in UK-Nigeria creative sector relations. Through ongoing dialogue and collaboration, the UK-Nigeria Creative Industries Technical Working Group aims to create new business opportunities, promote cultural exchange, and support the sustainable development of the creative economy.
