The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has concluded a historic visit to Lagos, aiming to strengthen UK-Nigeria ties through collaboration in fintech, innovation, and the creative industries.
This visit marked the first official trip by a sitting Mayor of London to sub-Saharan Africa, underscoring London’s commitment to building long-term, cross-sector partnerships that support inclusive growth, digital transformation, and cultural exchange.
Khan led a delegation of 27 London-based firms specialising in fintech, enterprise technology, and sustainability, supported by London & Partners, the city’s growth agency under Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth Howard Dawber.
The group engaged Nigerian policymakers, investors, and creatives in high-level meetings to unlock trade and investment opportunities across Africa.
“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 said in an email to The PUNCH on Thursday.
Wrapping up his visit to Lagos, Nigeria, the Mayor of London will continue his historic trade mission with stops in Accra, Johannesburg, and Cape Town to bang the drum for the capital as a place for investment, innovation, and cultural exchange.
“Africa has the world’s fastest-growing population and is seeing major economic growth across many of its economies. Over the next decade, there are huge opportunities to deepen partnerships with London. I will be working tirelessly throughout this visit to drive trade and investment across critical sectors, including finance, education, health, creative tech, and sustainability.”
Mayor Khan’s engagements in Lagos commenced with participation in a panel discussion at the Bridging Borders: How London and Lagos Can Shape the Future of Global Tech” tech event, where he highlighted how London and Lagos can jointly shape the future of global innovation and encouraged Nigerian tech businesses to invest 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.”
Lagos has emerged as the undisputed tech and fintech capital of Africa, leading the continent in startup activity, funding, global recognition, scale, policy support, and economic influence.
According to StartupList Africa, 503 active fintech startups operate in Lagos, more than double the number in its nearest African competitor. This firmly establishes Lagos as the continent’s fintech capital.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, remarked, “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.
“Through the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, we’re committed to unlocking new opportunities that benefit both our economies, and this visit is a powerful step forward in that journey of inclusive growth.”
The UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, said, “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.
“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.”
