To strengthen trade and investment through the creative economy, the United Kingdom and Nigeria have launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP). 

This initiative aims to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance global opportunities for creatives in both countries.

The newly formed Working Group, which was inaugurated at a high-level event in London, will serve as a platform for fostering innovation and collaboration across key creative sectors, including film, television, music, fashion, design, architecture, advertising, and gaming. 

A matchmaking event was also held to connect industry leaders from both nations, facilitating new business partnerships and investment opportunities.

With the global creative economy valued in the trillions, the UK and Nigeria are positioning themselves to leverage their rich cultural and artistic strengths for mutual economic benefits. 

By enhancing market access, investing in skills development, and promoting cultural exchange, the partnership is expected to unlock new revenue streams and solidify the creative industries as a major driver of economic transformation.

Speaking on the launch, Florence Eshalomi MP, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the UK-NG Creatives Technical Working Group, emphasized the potential impact of this initiative:

“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. By enhancing market access and investing in skills, we are opening doors to new opportunities that will create jobs and boost economic growth in the UK and in Nigeria.” She said. 

On the Nigerian side, Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, highlighted the significance of this initiative in harnessing Nigeria’s global creative influence:

“Nigeria’s creative economy is a global force, driven by our storytellers, musicians, designers, and digital innovators. From Nollywood to Afrobeats, fashion to gaming, our industries are reshaping global culture and commerce. 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, further stressed the importance of learning from the UK’s creative industry model:

“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.” 

Industry experts also weighed in on the economic potential of the collaboration. Adedayo Ayoade, Product Lead at Gbedu Labs, spoke about the opportunities for Nigeria’s music industry:

“The future of Nigeria’s music industry lies in live experiences, innovation, and global collaborations. The launch of the Creative Industries Technical Working Group, under the ETIP framework, represents a significant first step towards bridging cultures and amplifying the voices of the next generation.”

The creation of the UK-Nigeria Creative Industries Technical Working Group marks a defining moment in bilateral trade relations. With a joint work plan and Terms of Reference agreed upon for 2025, the focus is now on implementing concrete strategies that will translate into real economic impact for creators, businesses, and industry stakeholders across both nations.