The United Kingdom and Nigeria have formally launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group, a strategic initiative underneath the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP). The transfer, introduced in London, goals to bolster collaboration between the 2 nations’ artistic sectors and unlock new financial alternatives.
According to a press release from the British High Commission, the launch coincided with a matchmaking occasion connecting UK and Nigerian artistic business leaders. The initiative is designed to foster cross-border partnerships, drive innovation, and help sustainable financial progress in key artistic sub-sectors, together with Film and TV, Music, Fashion and Design, Architecture, Advertising, and Gaming.
A major end result of the occasion was the settlement on a Terms of Reference and a joint work plan for 2025, setting the strategic route for the Working Group’s actions. The partnership prioritizes cultural change and business collaboration, with the objective of driving long-term progress, increasing employment alternatives, and enhancing artistic innovation in each nations.
Industry Leaders Emphasize Impact
Speaking on 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 2 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, emphasised the worldwide affect of Nigeria’s artistic 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, harassed the significance of leveraging UK experience to construct stronger business 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 affect on Nigeria’s booming music business:
“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 occasion, attended by authorities officers and artistic business leaders from each nations, marks a significant milestone in UK-Nigeria artistic sector relations. Through ongoing dialogue and collaboration, the UK-Nigeria Creative Industries Technical Working Group goals to create new enterprise alternatives, promote cultural change, and help the sustainable improvement of the artistic financial system.