Hundreds of new jobs are set to be created across the United Kingdom following a wave of major investments by Nigerian banks, fintech firms and creative industry companies, according to a new government announcement.
The UK government said the investments, worth millions of pounds, reinforce Britain’s position as a global business hub while highlighting Nigeria’s growing role as a source of innovation and capital.
The announcement comes ahead of an official State Visit by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is expected to arrive in the UK this week alongside First Lady Oluremi Tinubu. The visit is aimed at strengthening trade and diplomatic ties between both countries.
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Nigerian firms expand UK footprint
A number of leading Nigerian financial institutions and fintech companies are scaling up their UK operations. Firms including LemFi, Kuda Bank, Moniepoint and Fidelity Bank are all increasing their presence, contributing to job creation and investment inflows.
Zenith Bank opened a new branch in Manchester on Tuesday, with plans to create up to 30 direct jobs. The bank is also considering a future listing on the London Stock Exchange as part of its long-term UK growth strategy.
Meanwhile, Fidelity Bank is planning to double its UK workforce in 2026, while First City Monument Bank has selected the UK as the first international base for its cross-border digital payments platform.
In total, seven Nigerian banks are now operating in the UK, supporting at least 1,000 jobs.
Fintech and creative sectors drive growth
Investment from Nigeria’s fast-growing fintech sector is also accelerating. LemFi has announced plans to invest £100 million over five years and will establish London as its global headquarters. Moniepoint aims to grow its London workforce to 100 employees, while Kuda Bank is expanding its UK base for global operations.
The UK’s creative industries are also benefiting. EbonyLife plans to launch EbonyLife Place London, a project expected to create up to 40 jobs and further strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
New initiatives backed by the British Council and the UK government will also support young creative entrepreneurs and deepen collaboration in advertising, media and cultural exchange programmes.
UK firms expand into Nigeria
British businesses are also increasing their footprint in Nigeria. Twinings Ovaltine is opening a £24 million manufacturing facility in Lagos—its first in Africa—expected to create more than 100 jobs and boost exports across West Africa.
Fintech firm Wise is set to receive approval for its first Nigerian licence, enabling it to tap into the country’s growing remittance market.
In addition, the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority has signed an agreement with Asset Green Ltd to explore a large-scale dairy project aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.
Education and technology partnerships grow
Several UK universities are also deepening their presence in Nigeria. University of Birmingham has partnered with University of Lagos to deliver programmes in applied artificial intelligence and digital communications.
The London School of Economics has launched a data science partnership with Nile University of Nigeria, while the University of the West of England has opened a new office in Lagos.
Other initiatives include the planned opening of Wellington College International Lagos in 2027 and a partnership between EStars and the Lagos State government to deliver digital learning to millions of students.
Strengthening economic ties
UK Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said the investments demonstrate the strength of the UK–Nigeria partnership, highlighting the role of enterprise and innovation in driving economic growth.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy added that the collaboration is creating jobs, reducing barriers to trade and opening new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
