The United Kingdom and Nigeria have introduced a £15 million Growth Programme aimed at attracting private investment, strengthening economic reforms, and supporting long-term, sustainable growth in Africa’s largest economy.
The initiative was unveiled during a two-day visit to Nigeria by the UK Minister for Africa and International Development, Baroness Jenny Chapman, who held meetings in Abuja and Kaduna to deepen bilateral cooperation under the UK–Nigeria Strategic Partnership.
According to a statement from the British High Commission, the programme is designed to accelerate economic transformation by supporting capital market development, expanding digital infrastructure, and improving conditions for private sector investment.
Speaking during discussions with Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, Chapman said the new initiative reflects a strengthened partnership between both countries.
“The UK–Nigeria Growth Programme helps bring this partnership to life by supporting capital market development, technology investment, small businesses and technical assistance,” Oyedele said.
He added that the collaboration is expected to create long-term benefits by driving innovation and expanding opportunities for businesses in both countries.
The three-year programme will also focus on reducing regulatory barriers, boosting broadband expansion, and promoting digital services through the UK-funded Digital Access Programme, which will support governance reforms across five Nigerian states.
During her visit, Chapman also met the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, where both sides reviewed progress under the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership. Discussions centred on increasing exports through the Developing Countries Trading Scheme, strengthening fintech cooperation, and expanding capital market ties.
In Kaduna State, Chapman held talks with Governor Uba Sani on long-standing UK development cooperation and new areas of partnership, including climate finance and economic development.
She also engaged local business leaders and investors on opportunities in key sectors.
Reflecting on the visit, Chapman described the partnership as “strong and forward-looking.”
“From launching our new Growth Programme with Minister Oyedele to meeting frontline health workers in Kaduna, every conversation this week has shown me a country full of ambition and a partnership that is delivering for both sides,” she said.
The UK government noted that its broader investments in Nigeria include nearly $800 million through British International Investment in agriculture, renewable energy, and manufacturing, as well as about $1 billion in financing support from UK Export Finance for infrastructure projects such as the rehabilitation of Lagos ports.
The launch of the programme follows increased diplomatic and economic engagement between both countries, including President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom and follow-up discussions on expanding trade and investment cooperation.
