The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, has concluded a significant four-day visit to Lagos and Ogun States, reaffirming the United Kingdom’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations and supporting critical development projects in the two key regions. The visit showcased the UK’s focus on fostering economic growth, boosting trade, and promoting sustainable investments in Nigeria.
During his visit, Dr. Montgomery engaged in high-level discussions with Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State. The talks centered around strengthening economic ties, increasing prosperity, and driving investment opportunities that would benefit both states and the UK. The discussions also emphasized future priorities aimed at fostering long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships.
One of the key highlights of the visit to Ogun State was the announcement of a $5 million investment by UK-based company Hinckley Recycling to establish Nigeria’s first battery recycling facility. The investment, facilitated by the UK’s Manufacturing Africa (MA) program, will create a state-of-the-art lithium-ion and lead-acid battery recycling and treatment plant. This groundbreaking project, to be located in Ogun State, will employ cutting-edge recycling technology, making it the first of its kind in Nigeria. The facility is expected to create 100 new jobs and establish a high-value export industry that could significantly boost the state’s economy.
The signing of a letter of intent between Hinckley Recycling and Ogun State officials marked a critical step forward in the partnership. Dr. Montgomery praised the efforts of Governor Abiodun, Ogun State commissioners, and the state’s investment promotion agency, OgunInvest, for their collaboration in bringing the project to life. “It is fantastic that Hinckley Recycling is committing to establish the first battery recycling facility in Nigeria, creating a new high-value addition export industry in Ogun State and 100 new jobs,” said Montgomery.
This investment aligns with Governor Abiodun’s broader vision of attracting new businesses and creating employment opportunities in the state. The British High Commissioner highlighted the UK’s continued support for Ogun State, mentioning that British International Investment, the UK government’s development finance institution, had already invested $15 million into Valency International last year. The UK’s Manufacturing Africa program is also actively supporting four other companies in Ogun State in their efforts to raise capital and expand production facilities.
In Lagos, Dr. Montgomery held discussions with notable business leaders, including Chief Emeka Anyaoku and the CEOs of Airtel Nigeria, Standard Chartered, Helios Investment Partners, Afrinvest, and KPMG West Africa. These meetings were geared toward furthering economic collaborations and exploring new opportunities for UK-Nigeria business partnerships. Lagos, as Nigeria’s financial hub, remains a crucial partner in boosting bilateral trade and driving investments across multiple sectors.
Reflecting on the visit, Dr. Montgomery stated, “My visit to Lagos and Ogun States has reinforced the strong ties between our two great countries. Both states are key to boosting Nigeria’s economic prosperity, and the UK is committed to driving that growth, promoting trade, and supporting their developments.”
The High Commissioner reiterated the UK’s focus on strategic investments in areas that align with Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts. The UK is not only supporting infrastructure and industrial projects but is also keen on promoting green energy and sustainable practices, as demonstrated by the battery recycling plant initiative.
