Nigerian-British Chamber Pushes for Stronger Trade Links at Lagos Forum

The Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) has renewed its pledge to strengthen commercial ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, using the recent Nigeria–UK Business Dialogue in Lagos as a platform to drive fresh momentum.

The meeting, which took place on September 2 at the residence of the UK Deputy High Commissioner in Ikoyi, brought together senior policymakers, trade officials, and business leaders from both countries. It also featured the first official visit of Florence Eshalomi, the UK’s newly appointed Trade Envoy to Nigeria.

Participants included His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner to Africa, Ben Ainsley; British Deputy High Commissioner, Johnny Baxter; Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nura Abba Rimi; alongside representatives from the Nigeria Customs Service and the ministry’s investment promotion arm.

Central to the discussions were strategies for removing obstacles that hinder commerce, opening up markets, and encouraging investment flows. Both governments restated their determination to create a predictable environment where businesses on both sides can thrive.

NBCC President, Prince Abimbola Olashore, who led the Chamber’s delegation, described the dialogue as another step in cementing the Chamber’s role as a key facilitator of trade and investment. He attended alongside senior Chamber officials, including Deputy Presidents Akin Osuntoki and Nnamdi Okonkwo, and Vice Presidents Lara Kayode and Tajudeen Ahmed.

Olashore stressed that NBCC’s vision is to remain the first choice for Nigerian and British firms seeking cross-border opportunities. He noted that the Chamber will continue to simplify processes for its members while positioning itself as a central hub for trade partnerships.

Later that evening, Chamber executives joined a networking session formally introducing Envoy Eshalomi to the Nigerian–UK business community. The reception spotlighted key growth sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Founded in 1977, the Chamber now represents over 400 member companies. Beyond trade missions and advocacy, it recently established the Nigerian-British Trade Centre, a hub designed to support exporters, attract investors, and provide market intelligence for international expansion.

With trade between the two countries currently worth more than £7 billion annually, observers say platforms like the Lagos dialogue will be vital in boosting non-oil exports and expanding investment opportunities in both markets.