The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has pledged stronger collaboration between London and Nigeria in business, technology, and innovation to drive economic growth and job creation.

Speaking in Lagos on Tuesday during a trade mission involving 26 high-growth companies in fintech and sustainability, Khan said the visit aimed to strengthen the economic and cultural ties between the two cities.

Organised under the Grow London Global programme by London & Partners, the delegation showcased London’s interest in forging long-term business and technological partnerships with Nigerian enterprises.

“Our delegation includes some of the finest London-based businesses in sustainability and fintech. We’ve come not just as patrons, but as partners,” Khan said at a panel moderated by Dr Juliet Ehimuan, Founder of Beyond Limits.

He described London as the tech capital of Europe and acknowledged Nigeria as the tech capital of Africa, noting the high number of African unicorns originating from Nigeria.

“We have over 120 unicorns in London, and we’re here to explore synergies with Nigerian unicorns and entrepreneurs to create prosperity, jobs, and inspiration for future generations,” Khan said.

When asked about London’s strategy for engaging Africa’s fast-growing cities, Khan said the UK capital would offer infrastructure, facilities, and a regulatory environment that attracts African businesses, positioning London as a preferred destination over cities like Paris, New York, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

He noted that over 120 African companies are listed on the London Stock Exchange, underscoring the deepening business relationship.

Also speaking, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Founding Partner at Future Africa, highlighted Lagos as a launchpad for top African talent and praised its ties to London’s Global Talent Programme.

Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake, noted that the partnership between the two cities would help shape the future of global tech. “It’s not just about banking or fintech glamour; it’s about building a digital bridge between the global South and North,” Alake said.