Nigeria aka The Giant of Africa has undeniably left an indelible mark on British society. But before unpacking its influence on British society as a whole, the historical context of its very existence cannot be overlooked nor undermined. Nigeria as we now know it to be called was formed as part of a colonial exercise of resource extraction and power in the 1800s. The region before then was made up of approximately 400 ethnic groups each with their own culture, traditional practices and leaders.
In 1914 the British joined the northern protectorate and southern protectorate into what is now known as Nigeria – the name itself was suggested by Lady Flora Lugard (nee Shaw) who was inspired by the River Niger and the Niger Royal Company Territories. On October 1st 1960 Nigeria was granted independence from colonial rule as a nation that gained its own identity and with this identity it influenced British society through its diaspora and through that shared history.
From politics to cuisine, the influence of Nigerian heritage and culture resonates across various facets of life in the United Kingdom. In this article, we will explore how Nigeria’s rich tapestry of culture has woven itself into the very fabric of British society, shaping and enriching it in profound and dynamic ways.
Politics
Photo credit Emmanuel Ikwuegbu – UnSplash
Nigerians have made significant contributions to British politics, both as elected officials and as engaged citizens. The presence of Nigerian-origin Members of Parliament, such as Florence Eshalomi, Bim Afolami and Kate Osamor, exemplifies the growing influence of the Nigerian diaspora in shaping legislative agendas and advocating for diverse perspectives. There are British Nigerians across many of the key political parties in the UK; a reflection of the diversity of thought which can be found within the diaspora. Additionally, Nigerian-descended activists and community leaders play pivotal roles in grassroots movements, addressing issues ranging from racial equality to social justice such as Richard Taylor, father of Damilola Taylor, campaigned against knife crime and youth violence until his death in 2024.
In terms of breakthroughs for Black communities in the UK and representation, British Nigerians have been breaking barriers for many years. In 2019 Ernest Ezeajughi, made history by winning the election as the first Black Mayor of the London Borough of Brent. While in 2018 NneNne Iwuji-Eme became the first Black female diplomat appointed as an ambassador to a nation.
With so many “firsts” it is clear that the Nigerian influence in British politics reflects a commitment to progress and hopefully inclusivity for all across the nation.
The Economy and entrepreneurship
Photo credit Desola Lanre Ologun via Unsplash
Entrepreneurship within the Nigerian Diaspora in the UK has energised the British economy, fostering innovation and driving growth in various sectors and that Nigerian Brits continue to redefine what it means to hustle.
From tech start-ups to fashion ventures, Nigerian-owned businesses contribute to the dynamism of the UK’s business landscape. Nigerian British entrepreneurs like Femi Oguns, founder of the Identity School of Acting and the Identity Agency Group or Marianne, Lola, Fola and Yossie Olaleye; founders of The Puff Puff Ministry just to name but a few.
Notable entrepreneurs like Adebayo Ogunlesi, founder of Global Infrastructure Partners, exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit and drive for success that characterise many Nigerian business leaders. Known as, “The Man Who Bought Gatwick Airport” by the Nigerian press, in 2006, his private equity firm, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) bought London City Airport. In 2009, GIP acquired the majority in London Gatwick Airport in a deal worth £1.455 billion.
Of course Nigeria’s rich natural resources, such as oil and gas, have forged economic ties between the two nations, facilitating trade and investment opportunities which should benefit both nations. The Nigerian influence on the British economy underscores the importance of diversity and cross-cultural exchange in fostering prosperity.
Nigerian entrepreneurship extends beyond traditional sectors, encompassing a wide range of industries and endeavours. In particular, the tech industry has seen a surge of Nigerian talent, with startups founded by Nigerian entrepreneurs making waves in areas like fintech, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence. These innovators bring fresh perspectives and disruptive ideas to the table, driving forward the UK’s digital transformation and positioning it as a global hub for technological innovation. Tech entrepreneurs like Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, Co-founder of Stemettes is a good example of this along with tech entrepreneur Elizabeth Ogabi and Silas Adekunle co-founder and the CEO of Reach Robotics, a UK-based augmented reality gaming company that created robots for gaming and STEM education.
The Nigerian entrepreneurial spirit is characterised by resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Academia
Photo by Desola Lanre-Ologun on Unsplash
Nigerian scholars and educators play vital roles in British academia, enriching intellectual discourse and driving research excellence across disciplines. Many Nigerian academics hold prestigious positions at leading universities, contributing ground-breaking research in fields ranging from medicine to literature. Just a few notable academics include; Professor Foluke Adebisi, Professor of Law at the University of Bristol, Dr Bisi Adenekan-Koevoets, British Academy Postdoctoral Fellow and Professor Osita Okagbue PhD, Goldsmiths, University of London – Osi (as he’s popularly known), is the Director of the MA World Theatres programme, and he teaches African Theatre History, Postcolonial Theatre, Culture and Performance, and Modernisms and Postmodernity.
Additionally, Nigerian students form a significant proportion of the international student body in British higher education institutions, bringing diverse perspectives and cultural insights to campus life. This however is changing with the political climate compelling more than a few Nigerian students to look elsewhere for academic success as this report on Nigerian students no longer choosing to study in the UK suggests. The Nigerian influence in academia fosters cross-cultural exchange and collaboration, nurturing the next generation of global leaders and thinkers.
The Arts
Photo by Ayoola Salako on Unsplash
Nigerian creativity and cultural expression have found fertile ground in the British arts scene, influencing music, literature, film, and visual arts. Nigerian musicians, such as Burna Boy and Wizkid, have achieved international acclaim, blending afrobeat rhythms with contemporary sounds to captivate audiences worldwide. Similarly, Nigerian authors like Ben Okri, Bernardine Evaristo, Inua Ellams and Bolu Babalola have garnered literary accolades, showcasing the richness and complexity of Nigerian storytelling traditions.
In the realm of film and television, Nigerian filmmakers are gaining recognition for their compelling narratives and cinematic prowess, challenging stereotypes and reshaping perceptions of African identity using digital platforms like YouTube and streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix to tell new stories. And of course artists like Yinka Shonibare CBE and Lawson Oyekan have been trailblazers in the art world.
The Nigerian influence in the arts transcends borders, bridging cultures and fostering cultural exchange that enriches the tapestry of British cultural life.
Food
Photo credit Femoree – via unsplash
Nigerian cuisine has become increasingly popular in British culinary circles, reflecting the growing appreciation for bold flavours and exotic ingredients. From jollof rice to suya, Nigerian dishes have found their way onto restaurant menus and food festivals across the UK, tantalizing taste buds and satisfying cravings for authentic African flavours. Moreover, Nigerian-owned eateries and food businesses contribute to the diversity of British culinary offerings, introducing diners to new culinary experiences and expanding their gastronomic horizons.
In 2024 we saw the first Black woman in the UK to be granted a Michelin star for her restaurant; the self-taught Nigerian chef, Adejoké Bakare with Chishuru restaurant. We also see the UK’s largest chain of Nigerian restaurants, Tasty’s and growing restaurant brands Enish and Chuku’s making waves in the British culinary world. But with all of this we cannot overlook the local eateries and food markets in areas like Dalston, Peckham, Woolwich, Barking and Plumstead – they serve the Nigerian diasporan population and keep them connected to their heritage.
The Nigerian influence in food within Britain reflects a celebration of heritage and a commitment to preserving culinary traditions in a multicultural society.
Photo by David Rotimi on Unsplash
The influence of Nigerian heritage and culture on British society is profound and multifaceted, spanning politics, economy, entrepreneurship, academia, the arts, and food. Nigerians in the UK bring a wealth of talent, energy, and innovation, enriching the cultural tapestry of their adopted homeland and contributing to its social and economic vitality. As the bonds between Nigeria and Britain continue to deepen, the enduring legacy of Nigerian influence will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of British society, hopefully fostering greater understanding, collaboration, and mutual prosperity.
