The Director-General of the City Boys Movement (CBM), Mr. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga, has declared that Nigeria is firmly on the path to reclaiming its position as a leading destination for global investment, following a historic surge in trade volume with the United Kingdom.
Shoga made this known upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, after participating in the UK–Nigeria trade mission held alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s State Visit to London.
Speaking with journalists and digital content creators, he described the visit as a turning point for Nigeria’s economic trajectory and industrial future.
Highlighting key outcomes, Shoga confirmed a £24 million investment by Twinings Ovaltine to establish its first-ever African manufacturing plant in Lagos.
“This is not just an investment in a product; it is a strong vote of confidence in Nigeria’s business environment. It will create jobs and position Lagos as a strategic production hub for the West African market,” he said.
On the $496 million Integrated Dairy Deal, Shoga described it as a transformative initiative aimed at reducing Nigeria’s dependence on dairy imports.
“For years, Nigeria has spent heavily on importing dairy products. This agreement introduces modern dairy farming, advanced processing facilities, and an integrated value chain—from improved livestock genetics to efficient cold-chain distribution. It will significantly boost local production and create thousands of jobs, particularly in rural communities.”
He also highlighted a £746 million port modernisation agreement covering Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, noting that it would address longstanding logistics challenges.
“This project will introduce modern infrastructure and digital systems that will drastically reduce bottlenecks. It is a major boost for exporters, manufacturers, and the oil and gas sector.”
Shoga further pointed to the milestone £8.1 billion annual trade volume between Nigeria and the United Kingdom the highest ever recorded as evidence of renewed international confidence in Nigeria.
“This achievement reflects deliberate and strategic economic diplomacy under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Agreements spanning fintech, agriculture, and energy demonstrate that Nigeria is now engaging global partners from a position of strength.”
He also cited the growing international footprint of Nigerian financial institutions and fintech firms as a sign of a more balanced bilateral relationship.
“The Nigeria–UK relationship is no longer one-directional. It is now a partnership of equals, with opportunities flowing both ways.”
Shoga concluded by urging Nigerian businesses and stakeholders to take advantage of the renewed global interest.
“The world is betting on Nigeria again. The government has opened the doors, and it is now up to local industries to seize the opportunities. The City Boys Movement remains committed to advocating policies that attract and sustain foreign investment.”
He reaffirmed the group’s support for the continuity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and its Renewed Hope Agenda.
