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| Mayor Sadiq Khan greeting officials in Lagos |
London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, spoke from the heart as he wrapped up a five‑day mission across Africa. He said Britain’s capital felt at home in Lagos, Accra, and Cape Town. He thanked every person who welcomed him so warmly .
He began in Nigeria’s largest city. In Lagos, he met tech founders and bankers. He heard how the city is booming as a creative and tech hub. He spoke at a flagship event hosted by London & Partners. He urged Nigerian firms to set up in London soon .
He noted that trade between Britain and Africa hit £50 billion in 2024. He said that figure could grow if firms from both sides work together . He praised Guaranty Trust Holding Company’s direct listing on the London Stock Exchange. That deal showed how strong ties already run between Lagos and London .
In Accra, Mr. Khan spoke at the University of Ghana. He urged students and startups to team up with UK partners. Imperial College has a new base there just for science and tech work. He said that move could help drive fresh innovations in health and education .
He also joined Ghana Food Movement leaders to hear how local farms are feeding the city. He thanked organisers for showing him how simple ideas can grow food for millions .
In South Africa, his final stops were Johannesburg and Cape Town. He backed a new “London × Cape Town Tech Summit.” He said jobs and growth would follow if innovators share ideas across oceans. He also took part in a sport and culture event that linked local groups with London clubs .
Across all three nations, he made one clear point: London values its African links. He said Londoners of Nigerian and Ghanaian birth form a vital part of the city’s life. He said food, music, and art bring London to life every day. He thanked diaspora communities for making London richer and more diverse .
He also voiced concern over UK visa rules for students. On the sidelines in Lagos, he told the Financial Times that cutting post‑study work rights would hurt Britain’s universities. He warned the government that such a move could push students away to other countries .
He said, “When students leave here, they carry good memories of London. They go home proud of what they learned. They share that pride with friends and family.” He spoke in simple terms. He urged ministers to see international students as a boon, not a burden .
Back in London, the mayor’s office noted that his trip was the first by a London mayor to Africa. Over five days, he held talks with senior officials, business leaders, and community groups. He aimed to flood the capital with new trade, tourism, and cultural ties .
Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners, said London’s strength comes from links around the world. She said markets like Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa hold huge promise for joint projects. She praised the mayor’s push to build deeper ties and new jobs .
Lord Collins of Highbury, UK minister for Africa, said the visit marked a high point in UK‑Africa ties. He said respect and shared history should drive new deals in tech, finance, and culture .
Dr. Lloyd Anderson of the British Council said the mission would boost not only trade but also arts and education programmes. He said Africa’s diverse talents would shine in London venues and classrooms .
In Lagos, Jonny Baxter, deputy high commissioner, said UK‑Nigeria links are vital for innovation in fintech, fashion, and more. He said new trade pacts would help both economies grow in fair ways .
Antony Phillipson, high commissioner to South Africa, noted how shared culture and sport can unite people. He praised Mr. Khan for taking time to meet local youth groups and sports clubs .
Many in Africa saw the trip as a sign of respect. Social media buzzed with clips of the mayor learning local dance steps, tasting street food, and speaking in local languages. That warmth, he said, made his mission all the more real.
He closed with heartfelt thanks. He said he would carry the memories home and share them with Londoners. He invited African friends to visit London soon, promising a welcome just as warm as what he received.
As he stepped back on his flight to London, he spoke in a final video message. He said partnerships built in Lagos, Accra, and Cape Town would yield new ideas and jobs for years. He thanked all who met him, adding that his trip had changed his view of leaders and young dreamers in Africa.
His words felt personal, not political. They showed how simple thanks can build trust and spark new projects. He left behind hope for deeper ties and fresh ideas to shape both continents. Anticipation now grows for the first Africa‑London business summit next year.
The mayor’s mission set a tone of respect and unity. It showed that trade and culture go hand in hand. Above all, it proved that a warm word of thanks can open doors wide.