London, UK, March 11, 2025 – In a landmark move set to redefine the creative landscapes of both nations, the United Kingdom and Nigeria have officially launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group. This initiative, a cornerstone of the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), aims to deepen bilateral ties and establish a robust framework for growth within the creative sectors.
A Milestone in Bilateral Relations
The launch event, held in London, was accompanied by a match-making session for leaders in the UK and Nigerian creative industries. These gatherings provided dynamic platforms to explore new opportunities and form commercial alliances across key creative subsectors, including film and television, music, fashion and design, architecture, advertising, and gaming.
Voices of Leadership and Vision
Florence Eshalomi MP, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the UK-NG Creatives Technical Working Group, emphasized the shared cultural bonds and the transformative power of creativity:
“Today marks a significant moment as we launch the UK-Nigeria Creatives Working Group. Our nations share a rich cultural bond and a deep belief in the transformative power of creativity, through music, film, fashion, and arts.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture and Co-Chair of the UK-NG Creatives Technical Working Group in Nigeria, highlighted Nigeria’s global influence in the creative economy:
“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.”
Strategic Collaborations and Future Prospects
Representing Mr. Asika, Prince Baba Agba, Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Creativity, underscored the importance of leveraging UK expertise for impactful collaborations:
“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.”
Adedayo Ayoade, Product Lead at Gbedu Labs, spoke on behalf of the music industry, emphasizing the significance of live experiences, innovation, and global collaborations:
“The future of Nigeria’s music industry lies in live experiences, innovation, and global collaborations.”
Structured Framework for Sustainable Growth
The establishment of the Creative Industries Technical Working Group is accompanied by agreed-upon Terms of Reference and a joint work plan for 2025. These documents will guide the group’s focus and efforts, ensuring that the initiative fosters long-term growth, enhances job creation, and unlocks new pathways for creativity and innovation in both countries.
A New Era of Creative Collaboration
The launch of the Creative Industries Technical Working Group signifies a pivotal moment in UK-Nigeria relations. By prioritizing collaboration and cultural exchange, this initiative is poised to drive sustainable economic growth and development, setting the stage for a vibrant future in the creative industries of both nations.
