The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has completed a historic visit to Lagos, Nigeria, aimed at deepening ties between the United Kingdom and Nigeria through strengthened collaboration in technology, fintech, creative industries, and sustainability. This landmark trip marks the first official visit by a sitting Mayor of London to sub-Saharan Africa, demonstrating the UK’s growing commitment to fostering cross-sector partnerships that support inclusive economic growth and cultural exchange.
Sadiq Khan, who led a 27-member delegation of London-based firms, engaged with Nigerian policymakers, investors, and leaders in the creative sectors during the Lagos stop of his African trade mission. The delegation, supported by London & Partners, the city’s growth and investment agency led by Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, Howard Dawber, included firms specialising in fintech, enterprise technology, sustainability, and innovation.
In a statement shared via email to The PUNCH on Thursday, Khan expressed enthusiasm about the visit, describing it as an opportunity to amplify London’s global appeal and deepen relationships with Africa’s largest economy.
“I am delighted to be visiting Nigeria and Africa this week, the first visit of its kind by a mayor of London to bang the drum for the capital and further develop the strong ties between our countries,” Khan stated.
He highlighted Africa’s dynamic growth trajectory, noting that with the continent boasting the world’s fastest-growing population, there are significant opportunities over the next decade to expand partnerships with London in critical sectors such as finance, education, health, creative technology, and sustainability.
While in Lagos, the Mayor participated in the “Bridging Borders: How London and Lagos Can Shape the Future of Global Tech” panel discussion. He used the platform to showcase how both cities can collaborate to shape the global innovation landscape and encouraged Nigerian tech businesses to explore investment opportunities in London.
“Londoners of African heritage have played, and continue to play, a huge role in making London the greatest city in the world, and this trip is an opportunity to celebrate our shared heritage, history, and culture with the African continent, as we build a better and fairer city for everyone,” Khan added.
Lagos has established itself as Africa’s fintech powerhouse, leading the continent in startup activity, access to funding, and policy support. According to StartupList Africa, the city hosts 503 active fintech startups — a figure that is more than double that of any other African city. This growth cements Lagos as the continent’s tech and fintech capital, making it a strategic partner for London’s innovation and finance sectors.
Jonny Baxter, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, welcomed the Mayor’s visit as a reinforcement of the UK’s commitment to Nigeria’s growth and prosperity.
“The Mayor of London’s visit underscores the UK Government’s commitment to strengthening economic and cultural ties with Nigeria. From trade to fintech and fashion, our collaboration is driving innovation and growth,” Baxter said.
He also referenced the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership as a platform that continues to unlock bilateral opportunities for both nations. The partnership is designed to facilitate trade, foster investment, and build capacity across key sectors, including technology, creative industries, and education.
UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, also praised Khan’s visit, describing it as a milestone in the UK’s efforts to deepen relations with Africa.
“Sir Sadiq’s visit marks an exciting moment for the UK’s relationship with countries across Africa and is a strong demonstration of our commitment to deepening our ties with the continent,” Lord Collins said. “Strengthening our trade, investment, and cultural ties is not only vital for shared economic growth but also for fostering long-term partnerships that are rooted in respect and open up opportunities for all.”
Following his engagements in Lagos, Khan is expected to continue his trade mission with visits to Accra in Ghana, Johannesburg, and Cape Town in South Africa. The mission aims to showcase London as a prime destination for global investment, innovation, and cultural exchange while exploring new avenues of collaboration with Africa’s emerging economies.
The visit is widely regarded as a strategic step in the UK’s broader foreign policy aimed at boosting post-Brexit global partnerships, especially with fast-growing markets like Nigeria, where sectors such as technology, creative industries, and financial services are thriving.
With this historic visit, both the UK and Nigeria are looking to create enduring economic and cultural bridges that will benefit future generations in both countries.
