ABUJA/Nigeria: The Director-General of the City Boys Movement, Mr. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga, has declared that Nigeria is entering a new phase of industrial transformation, following his participation in the recent UK-Nigeria trade mission held during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s State Visit to the United Kingdom.
Shoga, who arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on his return from London, told reporters and digital content creators that the outcomes of the visit signal a “definitive turning point” for Nigeria’s economic and industrial future.
Highlighting key investment commitments secured during the visit, he confirmed that global beverage giant, Twinings Ovaltine, has concluded plans to establish a £24 million manufacturing facility in Lagos—its first production plant in Africa.
“It is not just a rumour; it is a landmark reality,” Shoga said. “This is a global British company demonstrating confidence in Nigeria’s business environment. Beyond producing a popular malt drink, the factory will generate hundreds of direct jobs and position Lagos as a supply hub for the West African sub-region.”
He also underscored the significance of the $496 million Integrated Dairy Deal, describing it as a major step towards reducing Nigeria’s dependence on dairy imports.
“For decades, Nigeria has spent billions importing dairy products. This agreement introduces UK expertise to develop climate-controlled mega dairy farms and advanced processing facilities. It covers the entire value chain—from improved bovine genetics capable of increasing milk yield significantly to cold-chain logistics that will ensure efficient distribution. This is how we move from consumption to production and create thousands of rural jobs,” he stated.
On infrastructure, Shoga pointed to the £746 million port modernization agreement, which he said would transform operations at the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.
“This deal will eliminate longstanding bottlenecks that have hindered trade and export efficiency. With modern quays and digital border systems, Nigeria is set to become more competitive in global trade, especially for industrialists and players in the oil and gas sector,” he added.
The City Boys Movement DG further highlighted the record £8.1 billion annual trade volume between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, describing it as evidence of a renewed and balanced economic partnership.
“For the first time, bilateral trade has reached this level. It reflects deliberate diplomacy under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Nigerian financial institutions like Zenith Bank expanding into Manchester and fintech firms such as Moniepoint gaining ground in the UK show that this relationship is now mutually beneficial,” he noted.
Shoga said the developments send a strong signal to Nigerians that the global community is regaining confidence in the country’s economic prospects.
“I am returning with a clear message: the world is betting on Nigeria again. The President has opened the doors, and it is now up to local industries to take advantage of these opportunities,” he said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the City Boys Movement to support policies that attract foreign direct investment and drive sustainable economic growth, while also reiterating the group’s backing for the continuity of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
