UK Targets £9 Billion Investment Push in Nigeria and Africa as BII Expands Frontier Market Strategy

The United Kingdom has unveiled plans to channel £9 billion in fresh capital into Nigeria and other African frontier markets as part of a new five-year investment drive led by the British International Investment (BII). The initiative is designed to boost long-term economic growth by mobilising both public and private capital into underserved regions.

According to details of the strategy, BII will directly contribute nearly £5 billion, while the remaining funds are expected to be raised from private investors across Africa and global markets. The focus is on shifting away from traditional aid models toward investment-driven partnerships that deliver measurable economic impact.

UK Minister for Development, Jenny Chapman, said the approach reflects a new direction in Britain’s international economic policy, emphasising long-term collaboration over aid dependency. She noted that the strategy blends investment, technical expertise, and policy reform to support job creation and business expansion in emerging markets.

Chris Chijiutomi, Managing Director and Head of Africa at BII, said the institution is increasing its exposure to frontier markets, with at least 25% of new investments targeted at least developed countries. He added that BII will also deepen its focus on climate finance, expanding its allocation to 40%, particularly in renewable energy and power infrastructure.

The broader plan aligns with efforts such as Mission 300, which seeks to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030. Priority sectors under the strategy include energy, financial services, transport, digital infrastructure, and trade. Countries such as Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Zambia are expected to play central roles in the investment rollout as the UK strengthens economic ties across Africa.

source: Nairametrics