London Mayor Sadiq Khan visits Lagos to strengthen UK-Nigeria tech and creative ties
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London Mayor Sadiq Khan kicks off African trade mission in Lagos, connecting British and Nigerian innovators in tech and the creative economy.
Sadiq Khan Visits Lagos to Boost UK-Nigeria Tech and Creative Partnerships
Strengthening UK-Nigeria Collaboration
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has begun a historic trade mission across Africa with a high-profile visit to Lagos, Nigeria. His first stop has focused on deepening ties between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, especially in the booming tech and creative industries. Khan’s visit signals growing interest from the UK in collaborating with Africa’s rising innovation hubs.
A Tale of Two Tech Capitals
Speaking to a crowd of entrepreneurs and creatives, Khan praised Lagos for its rapid growth and impact. He compared the city to London, noting their shared leadership in innovation. “This is the fastest-growing tech cluster in the world. London is the tech capital of Europe, Lagos is the tech capital of Africa,” Khan said.
British Companies Join the Mission
The mayor brought along a delegation of over two dozen UK-based companies working in sustainability, technology, and digital services. These companies are not just visiting as investors, Khan emphasized, but as partners. “We’ve come to Lagos not as patrons but as partners, so both our great cities can flourish and thrive.”
Bridging Creativity and Innovation
The visit featured a gathering of designers, musicians, filmmakers, software developers, and startup founders from both countries. Many attendees highlighted how storytelling, art, and technology are deeply intertwined in today’s global economy. The forum encouraged cross-border networking and creative collaboration.
Mutual Learning Opportunities
Nigerian thought leaders see the visit as a valuable exchange of ideas. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Founding Partner at Future Africa, noted that Nigeria has much to gain from London’s experience. “There’s a lot we must learn from London,” he said. “From infrastructure and global talent to livability and regulation, especially on ethical AI, this collaboration is essential.”
Lagos’ Tech Scene on the Rise
Often referred to as “Silicon Lagoon,” Lagos is home to one of Africa’s most dynamic tech sectors. Young Nigerian entrepreneurs have launched globally recognized startups, particularly in fintech. The city’s youthful population, coupled with its entrepreneurial spirit, continues to position it as a global innovation hub.
Nigerian Officials Welcome the Alliance
Olatunbosun Alake, Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, welcomed the trade mission and stressed the potential of stronger partnerships. “We are here to build a bridge stronger than broadband in Victoria Island and faster than the Elizabeth Line,” he joked, underscoring the ambition behind the collaboration.
The Broader African Trade Mission
Khan’s stop in Lagos marks the beginning of a five-day visit to the African continent. He will also travel to Accra in Ghana, and Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa. The mayor’s tour aims to showcase London as an inclusive global city while identifying mutual opportunities with Africa’s emerging markets.
Creative Powerhouses Align
Beyond tech, Lagos continues to shine globally in fashion, film, music, and culture. From Nollywood productions to Afrobeats chart-toppers, Nigerian creators are reshaping global narratives. Khan’s visit celebrates these cultural achievements and explores new pathways for creative exchange between London and Lagos.
Looking Ahead
The visit is expected to open more doors for bilateral business partnerships, particularly in emerging industries. With global economic shifts underway, both London and Lagos are positioning themselves as agile, creative cities ready to tackle the future. Stakeholders from both sides expressed optimism that this partnership will deepen beyond the current visit.
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