Sadiq Khan Sets Sights on Africa: First Mayoral Trade Delegation to Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa

In a significant move aimed at deepening cultural ties and strengthening trade relationships between London and Africa, Mayor Sadiq Khan has officially announced his first mayoral trade delegation to the African continent. This landmark five-day visit, scheduled to take place later this month, will take the London mayor to Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, marking a historic first for the city. However, while the initiative has been hailed by many as a progressive step, it also comes with its fair share of political controversy at home.

Strengthening Diaspora Ties and Trade Links

Khan made the announcement during a visit to The Flygerians, a Nigerian restaurant based in Peckham, South London—a community known for its vibrant African diaspora. The visit was part of his effort to spotlight African businesses and cultures thriving in London. While helping to prepare Nigerian dishes at the event, Khan highlighted the economic and cultural importance of maintaining strong links with African nations, especially those with significant communities in London.According to the mayor, the tour will include stops in Lagos, Accra, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. These cities were strategically chosen due to their growing economies, tech innovation hubs, and established cultural ties with London. “I’m delighted to announce that later this month I will be visiting Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa to bang the drum for further investment in London and strengthen the cultural ties we have with each country,” Khan said. He further emphasized that the trade mission would serve as an opportunity to encourage bilateral investment and deepen cooperation between businesses in London and those in Africa.

Supporting his mission is a business delegation under the Grow London Global initiative, organized by London & Partners. The group includes companies seeking to expand into African markets and explore new avenues for collaboration. With Africa’s rapidly advancing technology ecosystems and youthful populations, the continent is seen as a major opportunity for London businesses looking to grow globally. Local entrepreneurs like Jess and Jo Edun, co-founders of The Flygerians, welcomed the announcement. They expressed pride in both their Nigerian heritage and the recognition the visit brings to the Nigerian community in the UK. “As proud Nigerians we’re really excited to see how the visit unfolds,” they said.

However, the timing of Khan’s announcement attracted criticism from political opponents. Susan Hall, leader of the City Hall Conservatives, rebuked the mayor for skipping a London Assembly meeting to attend the restaurant event. The meeting involved a vote on whether Khan should be allowed to set up a mayoral development corporation for Oxford Street—a move that could significantly alter the governance of one of London’s most iconic shopping districts. Hall mocked Khan’s absence by stating, “Apparently the mayor is at a Nigerian restaurant. I hope he’s enjoying his jollof pot. He is far more interested in Lagos than he is in John Lewis.”

In response, Khan defended his absence by noting he had already spent two and a half hours that morning answering Assembly questions on transport issues. Despite the controversy, the mayor remains focused on showcasing London’s openness and diversity on the global stage. Later this year, Khan will also attend the C40 World Mayors Summit in Rio, continuing his campaign for global collaboration on urban challenges.