Hundreds of new jobs are set to be created across the UK as a wave of Nigerian banks, fintech companies and creative industry businesses expand their operations in Britain, bringing millions of pounds of new investment into the economy. The announcements come ahead of a historic state visit by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, which is expected to strengthen economic ties between the two countries. The moves underline the growing importance of the UK as a hub for African business and highlight Nigeria’s expanding role as a source of innovation, entrepreneurship and capital.
Several Nigerian financial institutions are increasing their UK presence, with the banking sector expected to be a major driver of new employment. Zenith Bank recently opened a branch in Manchester, creating up to 30 jobs while exploring a potential listing on the London Stock Exchange in 2027. Fidelity Bank plans to double its UK workforce in 2026 and is positioning London as its global operational hub. First City Monument Bank has chosen the UK as the launch market for its new digital cross-border payments platform.
In total, seven Nigerian banks now operate in Britain, collectively supporting around 1,000 jobs while strengthening financial links between the two economies.
Nigeria’s fintech sector is also investing heavily in the UK. LemFi plans to invest £100 million over five years after designating London as its global headquarters. Moniepoint aims to expand its UK team to around 100 employees in 2026, while Kuda Bank is strengthening its UK headquarters as the centre of its international expansion.
Government ministers said the wave of investment reflects the strength of the UK–Nigeria economic partnership and Britain’s continued appeal as a destination for global businesses. Secretary of State for Business Peter Kyle said the commitments demonstrated the power of collaboration, while Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy highlighted the creation of new opportunities for businesses and innovators on both sides.
The creative industries are contributing to the partnership as well. EbonyLife will open EbonyLife Place London, a cultural and entertainment venue expected to create around 40 jobs and showcase African talent. Further collaboration will include a UK–Nigeria advertising summit, a talent exchange programme, and a UK/Nigeria Season of Culture in 2028.
British businesses are also investing in Nigeria. Twinings Ovaltine has opened a £24 million facility in Lagos, creating over 100 jobs, while fintech company Wise awaits approval for its first Nigerian licence. Educational links are expanding through partnerships between UK and Nigerian universities, with new programmes in AI, data science, and global surgery, and the launch of Wellington College International in Lagos in 2027, which will serve around 1,500 students.
Officials said the breadth of these investments across finance, technology, creative industries, and education demonstrates a deepening commercial relationship between the UK and Nigeria, expected to drive long-term jobs and investment amid global economic uncertainty.
