BNLF Marks 25 Years, Sets Agenda for UK-Nigeria Ties

The British Nigeria Law Forum (BNLF) is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary with the Nigeria Summit 2026 in Lagos, bringing together legal practitioners, business leaders, policymakers and investors to deepen commercial and professional ties between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.

The Summit, themed “A New Dawn in Law, Investment and Opportunity in UK–Nigeria Relations”, will focus on strengthening cross-border collaboration and exploring emerging opportunities in trade, investment, legal services, technology and other key sectors of both economies.

Founded to foster stronger relationships between legal professionals in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, BNLF has over the past 25 years evolved into a platform for promoting legal excellence, knowledge sharing, mentorship and policy dialogue between stakeholders in both jurisdictions.

Organisers said the 2026 Summit builds on the success of the inaugural Nigeria Summit held in Lagos in 2025, which attracted senior government officials, regulators, Lawyers, investors and business executives. The event provided a forum for discussions on investment protection, dispute resolution, technology, innovation and cross-border transactions, while also facilitating new business and professional partnerships.

Among the dignitaries expected at this year’s Summit are Florence Eshalomi, who will chair high-level policy roundtables aimed at advancing commercial engagement between the two countries. The Summit is also being organised in collaboration with the Nigerian Bar Association, its business and legal practice Sections, and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission.

Speaking ahead of the event, BNLF Chair, Kash Balogun, said the UK and Nigeria share one of the most important bilateral relationships on the African continent, noting that stronger connections among businesses, investors, professionals and institutions are essential to unlocking its full potential.

Also commenting, Genevieve Nwodo Wakeley-Jones said BNLF remains committed to building bridges between jurisdictions, and creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration. She noted that the organisation is focused on facilitating conversations and partnerships, that will drive future growth and development between both countries.

The Summit will feature policy roundtables, conference sessions, keynote addresses and networking engagements, culminating in a gala dinner to commemorate BNLF’s 25 years of service. Organisers say the event will provide a platform for fostering new partnerships, and advancing a shared vision for stronger UK-Nigeria relations.