The recent ‘Build and Construction’ Trade Mission to Nigeria and Ghana, organised by the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT), is envisaged to significantly impact the construction sectors in both West African nations.

UK companies had a chance to identify new business opportunities and build valuable connections, potentially transforming the local construction landscape.

The trade mission aimed to uncover market opportunities, facilitate high-level networking and identify potential projects and partnerships, showcasing UK expertise in various construction disciplines.

The delegation included key figures from the UK construction industry such as Emeka Okorocha, Managing Director of iStrat Consulting; Phil Dowrick, Client Director of Atkins Réalis; Thomas Farmer, Director at Dowen Farmer Architects and others. Their involvement indicates the high level of expertise brought to the mission.

Starting in Abuja, Nigeria, the UK delegates engaged in high-level meetings with government officials and private developers – gaining crucial insights and laying the groundwork for the subsequent phase in Ghana. This foundational phase provided delegates with a clear understanding of the Nigerian market.

The Ghana segment included a roundtable discussion with built-environment professionals and a networking reception at the British High Commissioner’s Residence. UK companies were introduced to emerging opportunities, engaging directly with potential partners to explore various business prospects.

The interactions between UK delegates and key industry leaders, government officials and private sector representatives in both Nigeria and Ghana will expectedly lead to new partnerships and collaborative projects. These engagements provided delegates with valuable insights into the regulatory and business environments, informing their future strategies and decisions.

In Accra, the welcome reception featured addresses from the Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, and a presentation by Bui Power Authority’s Director for Commercial Services, Mr. Pascal Kanbonnabah. These presentations highlighted significant project opportunities and the strong potential for future collaboration.

The Department of Business and Trade Country Director for Ghana, Giselle Agyare, emphasised the importance of forming synergies between the UK and Ghanaian industries to boost mutual trade.

It is noted that the partnerships formed during this mission could advance trade in the construction sector, paving the way for expanded business activities and innovative solutions to meet local needs.