Aleke Aleke in Abuja
The United Kingdom and Nigeria have launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering innovation and collaboration between the two nations.
A statement by Senior Press & Public Affairs Officer, Comms Lead, Prosperity and Economic Development, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, British Deputy High Commission, Lagos, Ndidiamaka Eze, said this pivotal development is part of the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), designed to deepen bilateral ties and create a robust framework for growth within the creative sectors of both countries.
According to Florence Eshalomi MP, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria, “Today marks a significant moment… Our nations share a rich cultural bond and a deep belief in the transformative power of creativity.”
The launch event, held in London, brought together officials from the UK and Nigerian governments, as well as creatives, to explore new opportunities and form commercial alliances within key creative subsectors.
Mr. Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, emphasized the need for strategic investment and support in Nigeria’s creative economy, which is driven by storytellers, musicians, designers, and digital innovators.
Prince Baba Agba, Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Creativity, underscored the importance of leveraging UK expertise for impactful collaborations.
Eze stressed that the partnership is poised to foster long-term growth, enhance job creation, and unlock new pathways for creativity and innovation in both countries.
She stated that with a Terms of Reference and joint workplan for 2025 in place, the Working Group is set to drive tangible outcomes for creators, businesses, and industry stakeholders on both sides.
As Adedayo Ayoade, Product Lead at Gbedu Labs, noted, “The future of Nigeria’s music industry lies in live experiences, innovation, and global collaborations.”
