By Anita Dennis
Nigeria and the United Kingdom have unveiled a new Economic Diversification Working Group aimed at boosting trade relations and unlocking opportunities across non-oil sectors of the Nigerian economy.
The initiative, unveiled recently, builds on the momentum of the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) Roadshow recently held in Kano and Lagos States, and seeks to advance cooperation under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP).
The dialogue focused on strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural, manufacturing, and digital services sectors, with the UK pledging support through trade facilitation, investment promotion, and capacity-building initiatives.
British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to growing bilateral trade, which currently stands at £7.9 billion as of March 2025. He noted that over 3,000 Nigerian products – including ginger, cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, soya beans, and textiles – are set to benefit from expanded market access under the DCTS.
“Today’s dialogue marks a significant milestone in the UK-Nigeria partnership,” Mr. Baxter said. “It reflects our shared commitment to inclusive, sustainable economic growth through strategic export diversification. By working together – government to government and with the private sector – we are unlocking new opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation.”
Representing the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Orji Gertrude, Director of Trade and Investment, noted that the DCTS comes at a crucial time as Nigeria accelerates efforts to diversify beyond oil and strengthen its integration into global value chains.
She emphasized the importance of understanding rules of origin, documentation requirements, product standards, and trade facilitation measures to fully benefit from the scheme.
“Through partnerships like this with the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT), we aim to reduce barriers to trade, improve competitiveness, and ensure that Nigerian products meet international standards,” Mrs. Gertrude said.
The dialogue concluded with a joint call for continued collaboration, knowledge exchange, and policy innovation to drive future trade and investment, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to a prosperous and diversified economic partnership.
