Coronation group partners for investment opportunities as Lord Mayor’s show, visiting cities banquet illuminate London

The streets of London witnessed a stunning display of cultural magnificence and global unity during the Grand Procession of the Lord Mayor’s Show, signifying a historic moment with Africa’s participation after 805 years. The grand event commemorated the installation of the newly-appointed Lord Mayor, Michael Mainelli, through a breathtaking parade.

In a strategic effort to promote international exchange, the procession proudly welcomed the involvement of countries beyond the UK, such as China, Italy, Hong Kong, Switzerland, and Nigeria, represented by Lagos State. The joint delegation from the state & EnterpriseNGR was headed by the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide SanwoOlu, and co-chaired by Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, who serves as the Chairman of EnterpriseNGR and Coronation Group Limited.

Coronation Group, Africa’s leading investment management powerhouse, took the spotlight as the primary sponsors, reaffirming its dedication to supporting platforms that bridge cultures and foster global collaboration.

The Managing Director of Coronation Asset Management and President of the Fund Managers Association of Nigeria (FMAN), Aigbovbioise Aig-Imoukhuede, joined the parade and expressed, “Coronation Group is honored to be intertwined with a rich tapestry of cultures representing centuries of collective efforts in advancing commerce, communities, and charities. Through our collaboration with Lagos State and EnterpriseNGR, we take pride in showcasing our vibrant Nigerian culture that embodies intellectual depth, passion, ambition, and entrepreneurial strength.”

The 2-mile-long Grand Procession unfolded in two stages – the outward journey to the Royal Courts of Justice, followed by a brief intermission, and the return procession to Mansion House. Over 2,000 participants from livery companies, the core of the City of London, joined this year’s parade to celebrate their respective trades, crafts, and professions, reflecting the dignity of labor and the significance of London’s financial district.

The Lagos team captivated the streets of London with their iconic Eyo masquerades, captivating afrobeats music, and a parade float showcasing Lagos’ remarkable achievements in the transportation sector, shaping the present and envisioning the future. The parade float paid tribute to the Lagos Blue Line, ‘Danfo’ buses, ‘Kekes,’ and iconic sites like the Lekki bridge, symbolizing these accomplishments.

Continuing the festivities, the Visiting Cities’ Banquet, organized by the City of Zurich, Switzerland, took place after the parade, offering a Swiss-influenced livery-style dinner that brought together participating cities, including Lagos, to celebrate their strategic importance to the City of London and nurture friendships. The evening’s toasts and ceremonies reaffirmed enduring bonds in the spirit of trade, goodwill, and diplomacy.

During the Banquet, the Lord Mayor, Michael Mainelli, emphasized the significance of establishing global partnerships for success, resonating with the global theme of the event. “The Lord Mayor’s Show stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering enduring connections across borders. Together, we embark on a journey of shared success, embracing diversity and constructing a future where collaboration transcends boundaries,” remarked the Lord Mayor.

The festivities on Monday will feature the Governor of Lagos State and Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede attending a high-profile banquet with distinguished UK VVIP guests, including the Prime Minister and the Archbishop of Canterbury. Additionally, the InvestLagos dinner will witness Lagos State and EnterpriseNGR hosting stakeholders from Nigeria and the diaspora, promoting business opportunities and fostering bilateral relationships under the theme “Lagos is Open for Business.”

The Lord Mayor’s Show Parade and Visiting Cities’ Banquet exemplify a glorious chapter in the history of London, celebrating diversity, trade, and the spirit of global partnership. As the city continues to embrace cultures from around the world, Coronation Group Limited remains proud to be at the forefront of supporting platforms that position Nigeria as Africa’s premier financial market.