UK, Nigeria Finalise Major Investment Agreements Ahead of Tinubu’s State Visit
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The United Kingdom and Nigeria have concluded a series of high-level investment agreements in London, setting the stage for the official state visit of Bola Ahmed Tinubu scheduled to begin on March 18.
The deals were reached under the framework of the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), signalling renewed momentum in bilateral economic relations.
Officials from both countries say the agreements are designed to strengthen investor confidence and unlock new business opportunities across key sectors. The collaboration is expected to support job creation, facilitate cross-border investments, and deepen commercial engagement between British and Nigerian enterprises.
A major component of the arrangement involves the expansion of Nigerian financial institutions and fintech companies into the UK market. Firms such as LemFi, Kuda Bank, Moniepoint, and Fidelity Bank are scaling up their operations, while Zenith Bank has established a new branch in Manchester to support trade flows and financial services.
On the Nigerian side, British multinational Twinings Ovaltine has launched a £24 million production facility in Lagos, marking its first manufacturing base on the continent. The investment is expected to boost regional exports and contribute to local employment.
Financial sector cooperation is also advancing, with Fidelity Bank rebranding its UK subsidiary and outlining plans for workforce expansion. Meanwhile, First City Monument Bank is preparing to introduce a cross-border digital payment platform aimed at improving financial transactions between both countries.
Nigeria’s fast-growing fintech ecosystem is drawing increased attention, with LemFi committing significant long-term investment in the UK, while Moniepoint and Kuda continue to expand their international footprint. These developments reinforce Nigeria’s emergence as a leading hub for financial innovation in Africa.
The creative industry is equally benefiting from the partnership. EbonyLife Media is set to establish a presence in London, while new initiatives, including a creative entrepreneurship programme and a planned UK-Nigeria advertising summit, are expected to strengthen collaboration in the sector.
Education remains another focal point of the agreements. University of Birmingham and University of Lagos have entered into partnerships covering areas such as artificial intelligence and global healthcare. Additional projects include the planned launch of Wellington College International Lagos and digital learning initiatives aimed at expanding access to education.
With bilateral trade between the UK and Nigeria currently valued at over £8 billion annually, both governments say the new agreements mark a significant step toward long-term economic cooperation, innovation, and shared growth.
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