The United Kingdom and Nigeria have officially launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group, a key initiative under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP).
The launch, coupled with a matchmaking event for leaders in both nations’ creative sectors, took place in London on Tuesday.
The partnership aims to stimulate innovation, strengthen bilateral ties, and establish a solid framework for growth within the creative industries of both countries, ultimately driving sustainable economic development.
The event served as a platform to explore new opportunities and forge commercial alliances within key subsectors including film and TV, music, fashion & design, architecture, advertising, and gaming.
A Terms of Reference and joint workplan for 2025 have been agreed upon, providing a clear direction for the group’s focus and efforts. The initiative is expected to foster long-term growth, bolster job creation, and unlock new avenues for creativity and innovation in both nations.
Florence Eshalomi MP, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the Group, hailed the launch as a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship.
“Today marks a significant moment as we launch the UK-Nigeria Creatives Working Group,” she stated. “This initiative, rooted in our landmark Enhanced Trade & Investment Partnerships (ETIP), will drive stronger trade ties, foster deeper collaboration, and unlock the full potential of our creative industries.”
Representing Nigeria, Prince Baba Agba, Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Creativity, speaking on behalf of Mr. Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture and Co-Chair of the group, emphasized the importance of leveraging UK expertise for impactful collaborations.
“Nigeria’s creative economy is a global force. 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 Agba said, highlighting the UK’s expertise in institutional excellence, market distribution, and innovation.
Adedayo Ayoade, Product Lead at Gbedu Labs, also spoke on behalf of the music industry, stating that the future of Nigeria’s music industry hinges on live experiences, innovation, and global collaborations. He emphasized that the launch of the Creative Industries Technical Working Group represents a significant first step in bridging cultures and amplifying the voices of the next generation.
The launch of the Working Group and the matchmaking event followed a series of in-person dialogues involving officials from both the UK and Nigerian governments, as well as creative industry professionals.
