The Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) is placing a bold spotlight on Nigeria’s creative industry, positioning it as a vital engine for economic growth and international trade relations—especially with the United Kingdom.
This message took center stage during the Chamber’s 2025 Outward Trade Mission to the UK, held from April 7 to 11, aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s global presence and economic diplomacy through cultural collaboration.
“Nigeria’s creative sector is not just talent-rich—it’s a strategic asset,” said Ray Atelly, President and Chairman of NBCC. “It holds the key to diversifying our economy and forging powerful bilateral partnerships, especially with the UK.”
The trade mission emphasized the creative economy as a high-potential channel for foreign investment, youth empowerment, and economic diversification.
In a compelling keynote address titled “Building Global Bridges: Creative Collaboration Between the UK and Emerging Markets,” Hannatu Musa Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, urged for greater institutional support and international alliances.
“Our creatives are global ambassadors. With the right partnerships and policies, we can amplify Nigeria’s cultural influence and drive sustainable development through the arts,” Musawa stated.
Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, called for targeted investments in infrastructure, creative talent development, and policy reforms to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.
“We must build a robust creative economy from the ground up—this means funding, facilities, education, and legislation that empowers the next generation of creators,” he said.
A high-level panel delved into UK-Africa creative collaboration, exploring digital transformation, diaspora engagement, and scalable market strategies.
Also addressing the summit was Rosie Glazebrook, CEO of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, who stressed the importance of reducing risks for investors and building confidence in Africa’s creative startups.
This trade mission coincided with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Summit in London, where NBCC President Ray Atelly joined global leaders to discuss critical themes such as trade liberalization, sustainability, and innovation in a digital era.
“Our participation reinforced Nigeria’s role as a rising trade and investment hub,” Atelly said. “We gained invaluable insights into global trends that can help Nigerian businesses grow through strategic international partnerships.”
On the sidelines of the summit, the NBCC delegation held numerous B2B and G2B meetings, laying the groundwork for future collaborations in technology, renewable energy, financial services, agribusiness, and infrastructure.
With this renewed commitment to elevating the creative sector, the NBCC continues to strengthen the bridge between Nigeria and the global market, unlocking new paths to prosperity.
