Despite the hurdles of entering unfamiliar markets and navigating complex systems, Nigerian entrepreneurs in the United Kingdom are thriving—leveraging the country’s supportive business environment to establish and scale their ventures across various industries.
In interviews with PUNCH Online, several Nigerian business owners shared their journeys of perseverance and growth, revealing how passion, preparation, and community support have helped them transition from local startups to global brands.
Ayomide Babadele: Redefining African Luxury in the Global Market
Ayomide Babadele, a fashion and interior designer now based in Birmingham, relocated to the UK in 2023 for her master’s degree in Project Management at Birmingham City University. She used the opportunity to relaunch Anthillbyenitan, a brand she began years earlier while studying at Bowen University in Nigeria.
“All our fabrics are designed by me and sourced from Lagos. It’s always been a dream to bring the richness of Adire, Aso Oke, and other indigenous textiles to the global market,” she shared.
Her UK-based business has since attracted clients from diverse backgrounds, including Britons, Asians, Lebanese, and Algerians. Despite the success, Babadele admitted to the emotional toll of starting over in a new country, citing unclear business registration processes and limited representation as initial setbacks.
Still, her participation in events like the World African Heritage Day, hosted by Lloyd’s Bank, has propelled her visibility and customer base.
“Visibility is everything. You have to speak from a place of inspiration and let your work do the talking,” she advised aspiring entrepreneurs.
Chisom Anoruo: Baking with Purpose and Faith
Chisom Anoruo, founder of Somdrew’s Cakes, paused her business upon moving to the UK to focus on postgraduate studies and comply with visa restrictions. However, a renewed sense of purpose led her to relaunch earlier this year—and her comeback has been met with enthusiastic support.
“I resumed baking in March, and since then, I’ve completed a wedding cake and several pastries. Most of my clients have come through referrals, and the feedback has been overwhelming,” she said.
Anoruo noted that building brand trust and navigating logistics are still significant challenges compared to operating in Nigeria, where dispatch services were more accessible. Nevertheless, she emphasized the importance of patience and preparation.
“In the UK, information is everything. You can’t afford to act on assumptions.”
Olamide Bakare: Capturing Culture and Community Through the Lens
Olamide Bakare, a professional photographer, moved to the UK in 2023 and found early success by connecting with the Nigerian diaspora while expanding his services to a broader audience.
“Tapping into the Nigerian community gave me a strong start, but I’m also working with clients from other backgrounds now. The UK rewards hard work and consistency,” he said.
Bakare praised the country’s streamlined regulatory system, highlighting the ease of registering a business within 24 hours from the comfort of his home.
“Respecting the rules of the land is fundamental. Once you do that, the environment supports your growth.”
Marianne Agolia: Empowering Migrants Through Employment Support
Marianne Agolia relocated to the UK in 2022 and, driven by personal experience, founded Lightup Families Ltd in January 2025. Her organisation assists migrants in navigating the UK job market—a challenge she faced herself in 2008.
“Many immigrants without permanent residency lack access to job support services. My goal is to fill that gap and make the transition smoother for others,” she explained.
Agolia credited the UK’s pro-small-business policies for helping her establish operations more easily than in Nigeria, where volatile markets and policy instability previously led to the closure of her businesses.
A Rising Wave of Nigerian Innovation Abroad
These entrepreneurs represent the growing “japa” wave—Nigerians seeking improved living standards and career opportunities abroad. According to data from the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency, over 128,000 Nigerian students enrolled in British universities between 2015 and 2022.
Their stories reflect a broader narrative of innovation, adaptability, and ambition. Despite cultural differences and systemic challenges, these Nigerian entrepreneurs are not only succeeding—they are redefining what it means to be global business leaders.
“With determination, vision, and the right information, Nigerian entrepreneurs can compete and thrive anywhere,” Bakare affirmed.
As they continue to bridge cultures and expand industries, these trailblazers are turning obstacles into stepping stones—elevating Nigerian talent and enterprise on the world stage.
