Nigeria-United Kingdom Economic Relations and National Development, 2015-2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17605/cajssh.v7i2.1311Keywords:
Nigeria–UK relations, Brexit, foreign direct investment, brain drain, technological innovationAbstract
The study examines the economic relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, especially in relation to the impact of Brexit, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), brain drain, student exchanges and technological development. The central problem is the effect on trade and economic development, especially in Nigeria. The research will consider the effects of Brexit on trade and investment, the effect of FDI from the UK on the economic growth of Nigeria, the effects of brain drain and the effects of educational and technological exchanges and innovations on the economic relationship between the two countries. The study uses the complex interdependence theory. This study is qualitative, with data sourced from government reports, academic articles and reliable media sources. The data were analysed using content and thematic analysis. The findings reveal Brexit has impacted trade between Nigeria and the UK; the new trade restrictions have increased costs and reduced competitiveness. Brexit uncertainties have led to declining UK investments in Nigeria and brain drain in health care and education, further exacerbating Nigeria's development challenges. Education exchanges have strengthened relations but the brain drain to the UK has weakened the potential for education exchanges to promote development in Nigeria. The use of digital technologies, particularly in the digital economy, has facilitated collaboration but presents challenges for Nigeria. As such, the study concludes that Nigeria needs to focus on infrastructure, address policy uncertainties, retain professionals and use digital technologies for diversification. Improved collaboration will encourage development and strengthen the Nigeria-UK relationship.
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