London Mayor Sadiq Khan on Tuesday launched a landmark tech partnership with Lagos as part of a wider effort to deepen economic and innovation ties between the UK capital and Africa, kicking off his first official trade mission to the continent.
The initiative, announced Tuesday in Lagos, establishes the London–Lagos Tech Bridge, a programme designed to accelerate cross-border innovation, trade, and talent exchange.
It forms part of the Grow London Global initiative, aimed at helping high-growth UK businesses expand into emerging markets.
This effort is part of Khan’s first-ever mayoral trade mission to Africa, covering Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa.
The move highlights Lagos as one of the fastest-growing tech ecosystems globally and London’s role as Europe’s leading tech hub.
Building the Lagos-London tech bridge
A key part of this partnership is the Lagos-London Tech Bridge, launched during Khan’s visit to Lagos.
Under the Grow London Global programme, 26 high-growth UK startups in fintech, enterprise software, and climate tech have arrived in Lagos to explore Nigeria’s fast-growing market.
Companies such as Algomarketing, Chekkit, and Deepsearch Labs participate in a two-day mission to promote long-term business relationships, innovation, and investment opportunities. This collaboration is expected to foster cross-border trade and strengthen business ties.
Strengthening cultural and economic ties
Mayor Khan described Lagos as “Africa’s cultural capital,” emphasising how culture and technology shape strong international relations.
He pointed out that London generates over £63 billion annually from its cultural sector and supports one in five jobs in the city.
Khan stressed that shared heritage and cultural exchanges between London and African cities will deepen connections and create sustainable economic opportunities for both regions.
The initiative also aims to draw Nigerian tech businesses to invest in London, further integrating the two economies.
The Mayor’s mission also prepares for the first-ever Africa-London Business Summit planned for 2026, which will unite entrepreneurs and policymakers across Africa.
This summit seeks to harness increased trade and investment, with Africa currently accounting for only 1.25% of London’s foreign direct investment, a gap Khan hopes to close through strengthened partnerships.
By spearheading this partnership, Sadiq Khan is positioning London and Lagos as collaborative hubs of innovation and growth, leveraging technology and cultural ties to unlock new opportunities on both continents.
