Nigerian-British Florence Eshalomi Appointed UK Trade Envoy To Nigeria

Florence Eshalomi, a 44-year-old Nigerian-British politician, has been appointed as the United Kingdom’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria. This appointment makes Eshalomi the second Nigerian to hold this position, following in the footsteps of Helen Grant.

Eshalomi, who confirmed her appointment on social media (formerly Twitter), expressed her pride and excitement, stating, “It is an honour to have been appointed as the United Kingdom’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria. I’m looking forward to building on my close ties with Nigeria to promote a strong and flourishing economic relationship between our two great nations. I am looking forward to building on the UK’s relationship with Nigeria, to help explore shared growth and opportunities for both countries.”

UK’s Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, confirmed the appointment in a statement on Tuesday. He announced the appointment of 32 parliamentarians to the role, highlighting the importance of trade and investment in driving economic growth. Reynolds emphasized that the new team of Trade envoys would use their expertise to open new markets for British businesses, stimulate investment, and boost the UK economy.

Eshalomi has been an active politician, first elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Vauxhall in 2019, succeeding Kate Hoey. She was re-elected in 2024 for the newly created Vauxhall and Camberwell Green constituency. As a member of the Labour and Cooperative parties, Eshalomi also served as a London Assembly member (AM) from 2016 to 2021, representing Lambeth and Southwark.

Before her new appointment, she was known for focusing on issues related to transport, housing, and equality. Currently, she chairs the housing, communities, and local government committee.

This new role will see Eshalomi continue to leverage her experience and expertise to strengthen the ties between the UK and Nigeria and work towards economic prosperity for both nations.