Nigerian Companies Invest Millions, Creating Hundreds of New UK Jobs
Nigerian firms are rapidly expanding operations in the United Kingdom ahead of a state visit by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The moves bring fresh capital and will support hundreds of roles across multiple sectors.
Banking and financial services
Zenith Bank opened a Manchester branch on Tuesday 17 March. The office can create up to 30 direct jobs and will boost the North West economy.
Zenith is also exploring a 2027 London Stock Exchange listing. The aim is to deepen its UK presence and secure long-term funding for UK–Africa growth.
Seven Nigerian banks now operate in the UK. Together they support at least 1,000 jobs across the country.
Fidbank plans to double its 62-person UK workforce in 2026 and raise fresh capital. The Fidelity Group has designated London as its global hub.
FCMB selected the UK as the first international base for its digital cross-border payments platform. This move aims to simplify trade and investment flows.
Fintech scaling
LemFi will invest £100 million over the next five years and make London its global headquarters. The investment underlines rapid fintech expansion.
Moniepoint intends to expand its London team to 100 employees in 2026. The firm will build infrastructure to support millions of African users.
Kuda plans to double its UK footprint in 2026 as part of global growth. These plans show how Nigerian fintechs are targeting the UK market.
Creative industries and cultural ties
EbonyLife will open EbonyLife Place London and create up to 40 jobs. The venue will promote African storytelling and creative talent in the UK.
The British Council and partners will run the SCALE Creative Entrepreneur Award Programme. It will help young Nigerian and UK creatives grow internationally.
The UK Advertising Exports Group will form a strategic partnership with Nigeria. Plans include a UK‑Nigeria Advertising Summit and a talent exchange scheme.
A UK/Nigeria Season of Culture will take place in 2028. The programme will involve joint projects from UK and Nigerian creative organisations.
Education and research partnerships
The University of Birmingham and the University of Lagos signed an agreement. They will deliver programmes in Applied AI, Digital Communications and Global Surgery.
The London School of Economics launched a Data Science partnership with Nile University. The University of the West of England will open a Lagos office.
Wellington College International Lagos will open in 2027. The school will offer places for 1,500 students.
UK-owned EStars will work with Lagos education authorities. Their esports-based digital learning will reach around three million students.
Manufacturing, trade and agriculture
Twinings Ovaltine is building a £24 million manufacturing facility in Lagos. It is the brand’s first African plant and will create over 100 direct jobs.
Wise is set to receive approval for its first Nigerian licence. This will support expansion in a remittances market valued at up to £39.9 million.
The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority signed an agreement with Asset Green Ltd. They will explore a large-scale integrated dairy project to boost local production.
Political engagement and trade framework
The President and First Lady will undertake a State Visit this week. The visit aims to strengthen commercial and cultural ties between the two countries.
A Deputy Prime Minister-led ETIP reception at Kensington Palace gathered 180 senior officials and industry leaders. Florence Eshalomi addressed the audience.
UK ministers highlighted trade and industrial strategies under the UK–Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership. These policies are attracting investment into financial services, technology, education and advanced manufacturing.
Annual bilateral trade now stands near £8.1 billion. The figures reflect growing commercial links and cross-border collaboration.
These developments show how Nigerian companies invest millions while creating hundreds of new UK jobs. Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor further announcements and job impacts.
