Nigerian businesses should expand to the UK – Envoy

The British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jonny Baxter, has emphasised that bilateral trade between the United Kingdom and Nigeria should extend beyond the presence of UK businesses in Nigeria.

Speaking at the launch of Westerfield College’s expansion from Lagos to the UK, Baxter highlighted the importance of fostering trade between the two countries.

He urged Nigerian businesses to establish in the UK, in an effort to reinforce economic ties between the two nations.

“We want to see trade flourish, driving prosperity, innovation, and cooperation. Many UK businesses operate successfully in Nigeria across various sectors, including energy, financial services, infrastructure and education.

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“But trade is not just about UK companies coming to Nigeria. That’s why today’s event is so significant, it showcases how Nigerian businesses can also expand into the UK,” he added.

The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin,  expressed his excitement over Westerfield College’s expansion to the UK, calling it a testament to vision and dedication.

He said: “This new campus serves as a bridge connecting cultures, ideas, and aspirations. It symbolizes a shared vision for an education system that transcends borders and empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.”

Westerfield College’s Managing Director, Michael Dosunmu, revealed that the institution, founded in Nigeria in 2011, had been planning its UK expansion for the past four years.

“Our dream of building this school was never about making money, it was about planting a seed and watching it grow. We now have offices in about 10 countries, and we are proud to put Nigeria on the global map. Our UK campus is set to open in July with a summer programme,” he stated.