United Kingdom and Nigeria have officially launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group.
The initiative is aimed towards fostering innovation and collaboration in the sector under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, ETIP.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that the launch and a match-making event for leaders of UK-Nigeria creative industries took place on Tuesday in London.
The partnership aims to boost innovation, deepen bilateral ties and create a robust framework for growth within the creative sectors of both nations, as well as drive sustainable economic growth and development.
Both events provide a platform to explore new opportunities and form commercial alliances within key creative subsectors such as film and television, music, fashion and design, architecture, advertising and gaming.
A terms of reference and joint workplan for 2025 were also agreed upon by both countries to guide the group’s focus and efforts.
The initiative is poised to foster long-term growth, enhance job creation and unlock new pathways for creativity and innovation in both countries.
UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the Group, Florence Eshalomi lauded the initiative, describing it as a milestone in bilateral relations between both countries.
“Today marks a significant moment as we launch the UK-Nigeria Creatives Working Group.
“Our nations share a rich cultural bond and a deep belief in the transformative power of creativity, through music, film, fashion and arts.
“This initiative, rooted in our landmark Enhanced Trade & Investment Partnerships, will drive stronger trade ties, foster deeper collaboration and unlock the full potentials of our creative industries.
“By enhancing market access and investing in skills, we are opening doors to new opportunities that will create jobs and boost economic growth in the UK and Nigeria,” she said.
Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture and Co-Chair of the group, Mr Obi Asika, emphasised the need for deeper creative and cultural ties between UK and Nigeria.
Asika, who was represented by the Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Creativity, Prince Baba Agba, underscores the importance of leveraging UK expertise for impactful collaboration.
“Nigeria’s creative economy is a global force, driven by our storytellers, musicians, designers and digital innovators; from Nollywood to Afrobeats, fashion to gaming, our industries are reshaping global culture and commerce.
“However, to unlock the full potentials of this sector, we need strategic investments and support not just in talent, but in the institutions and infrastructure that will sustain long-term growth.
“UK’s creative industries stand as a global benchmark for institutional excellence, market distribution and innovation, and we are eager to tap into your expertise for meaningful partnerships.
“This Working Group is not just about discussions, it is about taking concrete actions that will yield tangible outcomes for creators, businesses and industry stakeholders on both sides,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the music industry, Product Lead at Gbedu Labs, Adedayo Ayoade, said the future of Nigeria’s music industry lies in live experiences, innovation and global collaborations.
“The launch of the Creative Industries Technical Working Group, under ETIP framework, represents a significant first step towards bridging cultures and amplifying the voices of the next generation,” he said.
The launch of the Working Group and the match-making event followed a series of in-person dialogues attended by officials from the UK and Nigerian governments, as well as creatives. NAN
