NIGERIA has intensified efforts to deepen trade and investment ties with the United Kingdom, following a series of high-level engagements in London led by Dr Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment.
Her visit coincided with the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit held from April 7–8, offering a platform to highlight Nigeria’s economic priorities and attract UK capital into non-oil sectors such as manufacturing, services, and technology.
These efforts align with Nigeria’s wider strategy to position itself as a top-tier investment destination, supported by reforms aimed at economic diversification and improving the ease of doing business.
Oduwole pitches non-oil growth to UK investors
Dr Oduwole participated in two exclusive investor events hosted by Invest Africa, where she met with leading UK stakeholders and investors to promote Nigeria’s evolving business landscape.
In a keynote address delivered at an Invest Africa roundtable on 8 April, she emphasised Nigeria’s push for non-oil sector growth, improved public-private dialogue, and a friendlier regulatory environment for foreign direct investment.
‘Nigeria is open for business,’ the Minister said. ‘We are committed to fostering innovation and economic growth, while offering real opportunities for investors ready to engage in sustainable development across our key sectors.’
The events sparked constructive discussions with UK executives on new partnership models, commercial linkages, and scalable investment opportunities.
Lagos Free Zone spotlighted as growth hub
A standout feature of the visit was a strategic event co-hosted by Invest Africa and Lagos Free Zone (LFZ), where the industrial hub was showcased as a pivotal anchor for Nigeria’s manufacturing ambitions.
Adesuwa Ladoja, MD & CEO of LFZ, highlighted its integrated infrastructure and ease-of-business framework as key drivers for attracting global players. ‘The Lagos Free Zone is a game-changer for industrial growth in Nigeria,’ she said. ‘It offers seamless operations for companies looking to expand into West Africa.’
The session included a panel discussion on industrialisation and market access, outlining how LFZ could serve as a springboard for UK companies eyeing the Nigerian and broader African markets.
