In a groundbreaking development, the United Kingdom and Nigeria are on the verge of signing a partnership agreement that will enable British legal practitioners to conduct business and provide services within Nigeria.
The Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) is set to extend beyond financial collaboration, opening new avenues for trade and investment between the two nations.
The UK’s Department of Business and Trade revealed that this historic pact, the first of its kind between the UK and an African country, aims to strengthen cooperation and capitalize on the already productive $7 billion partnership.
Kemi Badenoch, the British Business and Trade Secretary, emphasized the potential of the agreement, considering Nigeria’s status as one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa.
“This partnership with Nigeria, the UK’s first with an African country, will allow us to work together and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. Nigeria has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. UK businesses have already seen huge success here, and I look forward to seeing how we continue to grow this relationship,” said Kemi Badenoch.
The ETIP deal not only focuses on financial aspects but also addresses legal barriers. As part of the agreement, Nigeria commits to taking steps to reduce obstacles preventing UK lawyers from practicing international and foreign law within the West African state.
“It will see Nigeria commit to working towards removing barriers preventing UK lawyers from practicing international and foreign law in Nigeria, a step that could significantly increase UK legal services exports,” the release stated.
This collaboration is poised to bring about new opportunities for British legal professionals in Nigeria, fostering increased cooperation and paving the way for a more integrated legal landscape between the two nations.