London, – the House of Lords provided the stage for a landmark gathering of leaders, policymakers, and cultural innovators from the UK and Nigeria’s creative industries. Hosted by Lord Stephen and organised by Eryca Freemantle of E.A.T.O.W. (Embracing All Tones of Woman), the event, An Audience with The Honourable Obi Asika, delivered an intimate and impactful keynote on fostering equitable partnerships and celebrating the global influence of Nigerian creativity, and launched of the upcoming trade mission from the UK to Lagos and Abuja from 4th – 10th June 2025 to empower professionals seeking to develop partnership and drive innovation within. the Creative and Beauty industries.
The day’s discussions at the House of Lords transitioned into an inspiring evening celebration at the Africa Centre, further solidifying the bonds of collaboration and innovation between the two nations.
Welcome and Opening Remarks
The day was hosted by Yemisi Mokuolu, Founder and CEO of Hatch Ideas Worldwide Ltd and Hatch Africa and co-hosted by Bolaji Olatoye, CEO of Altitude AI Consulting.
The session at the House of Lords was opened by Lord Stephen’s and followed by a keynote welcome from Lucy Haine, Global Digital Commerce & Marketplace Lead of the UK Department of Business & Trade who formally announced Nigeria as a trading partner to the UK.
Eryca Freemantle, founder of E.A.T.O.W., followed with a stirring speech, highlighting the mission of her organisation to build bridges through culture, creativity, and collaboration. She emphasised the importance of empowering creative professionals and fostering partnerships that drive global change.
“This gathering is a testament to the dynamic spirit of Nigeria’s creative industries and the opportunities that arise when we collaborate across borders. Together, we can inspire innovation and create a future defined by equity and empowerment,” said Freemantle.
Keynote Address: “Nigeria Everywhere”
The Honourable Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) and Co-Chair of the UK-Nigeria Technical Working Group, delivered a powerful keynote address titled “Nigeria Everywhere” and Fireside Chat with Yemisi Mokuolu.
He outlined initiatives such as the Creative Leap Accelerator Programme (CLAP) and the Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF), which aim to transform talent into opportunity and provide structured financing for creatives. Asika also called for practical partnerships with UK institutions to co-create platforms, co-productions, and infrastructure that further strengthen the creative ecosystem.
“Nigeria’s creative industries are not just culturally dominant; they are economically impactful. From Afrobeats to Nollywood, our talent is shaping global narratives, and with strategic partnerships, we can expand these opportunities even further,” said Honourable Obi Asika.
Panel Discussions: Building Bridges Across Borders
The event featured two dynamic panel discussions:
UK & Nigeria Collaboration, moderated by Yemisi Mokuolu, explored strategies for fostering cultural and economic ties. Panellists included Ed Emeka Keazor, DJ Abass, Femi Oyeniran and Hannah O’Leary.
The Business of Media, Culture & Entertainment, led by Bukky George Taylor, delved into the evolving dynamics of the creative industries. Panellists included Adesope Olajide, Chioma Ude, Chidi Okeke, Natasha Manley and Nike Awoyinka.
Both panels underscored the importance of shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to equitable partnerships in driving sustainable growth.
A Call to Action: Equitable Partnership and Proudly Nigerian
The event was closed by Oba Nsugbe, Chair of the Africa Centre. He highlighted the overarching theme of the day was a call for equitable partnerships that empowers producers and creatives and foster inclusive growth. Attendees were encouraged to embrace the ethos of being Proudly Nigerian while building bridges that benefit both nations.
Evening Celebration at the Africa Centre
The evening concluded with a vibrant reception at the Africa Centre, where dignitaries, creators, and policymakers continued the day’s conversations in a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere.
Quotes from the Event:
“Strong partnerships thrive on mutual respect and shared vision. Together, we can create a future where creativity knows no borders.” – Eryca Freemantle
“Nigeria’s soft power is a movement, an economy, and a bridge between cultures. With your partnership, we will go even further.” – Hon. Obi Asika
About E.A.T.O.W. Up
E.A.T.O.W. (Embracing All Tones of Woman) is a global organisation dedicated to building bridges through culture, creativity, and collaboration. Its mission is to empower creative professionals, drive innovation, and foster cross-cultural partnerships that inspire global change.