April 28, (THEWILL) — The UK–Nigeria Technology Hub has launched a new Creative Fund, opening applications for grants to address technical capacity gaps across Nigeria’s film, fashion and music industries.
Announced in a statement by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on Tuesday, the initiative seeks to strengthen Nigeria’s creative value chain by enhancing digital production capabilities, promoting modern technologies and encouraging responsible use of artificial intelligence.
Applications are now open to creative companies, studios, production houses, fashion businesses and music labels with clearly defined technical needs. The fund aligns with priorities under the UK–Nigeria Economic Transformation and Investment Partnership Creatives Working Group, introduced in March 2025, and builds on commitments made during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to the UK in March 2026.
This first-phase programme will support high-potential projects by providing access to technical talent, tools, and resources to produce and scale in Nigeria. It is financed through the UK Government’s Digital Access Programme and implemented by Tech4Dev.
Director of the UK–Nigeria Tech Hub, Oyinkansola Akintola Bello, said the fund addresses key gaps in skills, infrastructure and access to advanced tools. Tech4Dev’s Country Manager, Abraham Akpan, added that it will expand inclusion and strengthen local capacity.
A 2024 study estimates Nigeria’s creative sector employs 4.2 million people and contributes about $3 billion annually, despite persistent challenges such as limited financing and reliance on outsourced technical work.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
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