The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Nigeria in expanding its creative economy, describing the sector as a powerful driver of growth, jobs, and international influence.
Speaking at Nigeria’s Creative Economy Week in Abuja, British High Commissioner Richard Montgomery said the creative economy is a “real priority” for the UK government, noting that it currently supports 2.4 million jobs in Britain and could deliver similar opportunities for Nigeria’s youthful population.
“The creative economy is one of eight sectors prioritized under the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership between the UK and Nigeria,” Montgomery stated, praising Nollywood, Afrobeats, and fashion as industries already reshaping global culture.
He described the partnership as mutually beneficial, with the UK bringing finance and expertise, while Nigeria contributes innovation and cultural richness. The Nigerian diaspora in the UK, he added, remains a strong bridge between both nations.
British Council Country Director, Donna McGowan, said the collaboration highlights creativity’s role in employability, inclusive growth, and international connections. “With Nigeria’s huge youth population, the potential for cooperation is enormous,” she noted.
Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Mukhtar Muhammad, described Nigeria’s creative industries as “the country’s new national pride and global passport,” stressing the importance of international partnerships to scale their impact.
Creative Economy Week, themed “Building Futures through Creativity,” is expected to spur new collaborations between both countries in policy, skills development, and industry growth.
