The United Kingdom and Nigeria have officially launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group as part of the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), signed in February 2024.
This initiative represents a significant step toward strengthening collaboration between the two nations’ creative sectors.
A statement by the British High Commission indicates that the launch, held today in London alongside a match-making event for UK and Nigerian creative industry leaders, marks a milestone in fostering innovation, cross-border partnerships, and sustainable economic growth.
Both events provided a dynamic platform for exploring commercial opportunities in key creative sub-sectors, including Film and TV, Music, Fashion and Design, Architecture, Advertising, and Gaming.
As part of the initiative, a Terms of Reference and a joint work plan for 2025 were agreed upon, setting the strategic direction for the Working Group’s activities. By prioritizing collaboration and cultural exchange, the initiative is expected to drive long-term industry growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance creative innovation in both countries.
Speaking at the launch, Florence Eshalomi MP, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the UK-Nigeria Creatives Technical Working Group, emphasized the significance of the initiative:
“Today marks an important step forward as we launch the UK-Nigeria Creatives Working Group. Our countries share deep cultural ties and a strong belief in the transformative power of creativity—whether in music, film, fashion, or the arts.
“This initiative, under the landmark Enhanced Trade & Investment Partnership (ETIP), will strengthen trade relations, foster collaboration, and unlock the immense potential of our creative industries. By improving market access and investing in skills development, we are creating new opportunities that will drive job creation and economic growth in both the UK and Nigeria.”
Co-Chair of the Working Group in Nigeria and Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Obi Asika, highlighted the global impact of Nigeria’s creative economy:
“Nigeria’s creative sector is a powerhouse, fueled by storytellers, musicians, designers, and digital innovators. From Nollywood to Afrobeats, fashion to gaming, our industries are reshaping global culture and commerce. However, to realize the sector’s full potential, we need strategic investment—not just in talent, but in the institutions and infrastructure that will sustain long-term growth.”
Representing the Nigerian delegation, Prince Baba Agba, Special Assistant to the President on Creativity, underscored the importance of UK-Nigeria collaboration:
“The UK’s creative industries set a global benchmark for excellence in institutional support, market distribution, and innovation. We are eager to leverage this expertise to build impactful partnerships. This Working Group is not just about discussions—it is about driving real, tangible outcomes for creators, businesses, and industry stakeholders.”
On behalf of the music industry, Adedayo Ayoade, Product Lead at Gbedu Labs, reflected on the significance of the initiative:
“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 vital first step in bridging cultures and amplifying the voices of the next generation.”
The launch event brought together key officials from the UK and Nigerian governments, as well as leading figures from the creative industries.
The statement explains that through the ongoing dialogue and collaboration, the UK-Nigeria Creative Industries Technical Working Group aims to facilitate new business opportunities, promote cultural exchange, and ensure the sustainable development of the creative sector in both countries.
