In a significant move aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and fostering economic growth, the United Kingdom and Nigeria have inked a pioneering trade and investment partnership. The partnership, which marks the first of its kind between the UK and an African nation, seeks to build upon the robust £7 billion trading relationship shared between the two countries.
The Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) was formalized during a ceremony in Abuja, where Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Kemi Badenoch, and Nigerian Trade Minister, Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, signed the historic agreement. Designed to bolster trade ties and unlock new opportunities for businesses in both nations, the ETIP sets the stage for collaboration across various sectors, including legal, financial services, and clean energy.
Under the framework of the ETIP, the UK and Nigeria will leverage the ambitious Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) to streamline trading terms and facilitate smoother commerce. As part of this initiative, Nigeria stands to benefit from tariff reductions on over 3000 products, paving the way for increased exports to the UK.
Speaking on the significance of the partnership, Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch emphasized the vital role that Nigeria plays as a strategic partner for the UK. Highlighting Nigeria’s status as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, Badenoch expressed optimism about the opportunities that the enhanced partnership would offer UK businesses.
Echoing her sentiments, Nigerian Minister for Trade Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite hailed the deepening of economic ties between the two nations, noting that the partnership would propel Nigeria-UK relations towards shared economic prosperity.
In addition to facilitating trade, the ETIP aims to address market access barriers and promote investment in key sectors. The partnership also opens avenues for collaboration with the City of London, renowned for its financial and professional services expertise.
Furthermore, the partnership extends beyond trade agreements to encompass sustainable development initiatives, exemplified by a landmark energy agreement between UK-based firm Konexa and Nigerian Breweries PLC. This agreement underscores the commitment to renewable energy adoption and marks a significant step towards sustainable industrial operations in the region.
As the UK and Nigeria embark on this transformative journey of collaboration, stakeholders on both sides anticipate the tangible benefits and opportunities that the partnership will unlock. With a shared commitment to economic growth and prosperity, the ETIP sets a precedent for future collaborations and underscores the enduring strength of UK-Nigeria relations.
Share your story or I Witness Reports with us 24/7 via SMS/Whatsapp: +234(0)8072022024, Email: [email protected], follow us on our social media platforms: X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook: @Gatmash, and subscribe to our YouTube channel: Gatmash TV.
Gatmash News is one of the most sought-after news portals, with an increasing audience and exclusive breaking news and reports across the globe. Plus more. Website: https://gatmash.com
For ad placement, contact us today via email at [email protected] or call our hotlines at +234(0)8072022024.