The Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) has reaffirmed its role in driving stronger economic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, following its participation at the Nigeria–UK Business Dialogue in Lagos on September 2.
The event, hosted at the residence of the UK Deputy High Commissioner in Ikoyi, brought together senior government officials, business leaders and trade representatives under the UK–Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP). It marked the first official visit of Florence Eshalomi, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria.
Also in attendance were His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner to Africa, Ben Ainsley; British Deputy High Commissioner, Johnny Baxter; Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nura Abba Rimi; and senior officials from the Nigeria Customs Service and the ministry’s investment promotion unit.
Discussions centred on removing trade barriers, improving market access and creating opportunities for Nigerian and British businesses. The talks underscored both governments’ commitment to building a more open and predictable investment environment.
Prince Abimbola Olashore, NBCC President and Chairman of Council, led the Chamber’s delegation. He was joined by Deputy Presidents Akin Osuntoki and Nnamdi Okonkwo, and Vice Presidents Lara Kayode and Tajudeen Ahmed.
Olashore said the Chamber would continue to position itself as the leading channel for trade and investment flows between Nigeria and the UK. “Our commitment is to make business easier for members while positioning NBCC as the foremost channel for trade and investment between Nigeria and Britain,” he said.
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Later in the evening, NBCC executives attended a networking reception where Eshalomi was formally introduced to the Nigeria–UK business community. The reception spotlighted sectors considered critical to bilateral trade expansion, including manufacturing, services and agriculture.
Since its establishment in 1977, NBCC has evolved into a key intermediary between businesses in both countries, with more than 400 member companies across diverse sectors. The Chamber facilitates trade missions, policy dialogues and advocacy, while providing training and market intelligence for companies exploring cross-border expansion.
Earlier this year, NBCC launched the Nigerian-British Trade Centre, a one-stop hub designed to help firms boost exports, attract investment and acquire international business expertise.
According to the Chamber, the centre is positioned not only to deepen trade but also to “accelerate economic diversification and promote cultural exchange between both nations.”
With UK-Nigeria trade valued at more than £7 billion annually, stakeholders say momentum from dialogues like this will be critical to unlocking growth opportunities at a time when both economies are seeking to attract investment and expand non-oil exports.
