Nigeria has launched a powerful initiative to position itself at the forefront of Africa's ambitious single-market project, kickstarting the first-ever African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Public Private Press (P3) Summit in Abuja. This high-level gathering marks a decisive move by the nation to accelerate the implementation of the continental agreement, which promises access to a staggering $3.4 trillion market and 1.4 billion consumers.
A Strategic Leap for Nigeria's Economic Future
In her opening address, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, described the AfCFTA as one of the world's most significant economic integration efforts. She firmly linked Nigeria's economic prospects to the success of this continental pact, stating that "Africa retains more value when it trades with itself."
Oduwole highlighted Nigeria's proactive steps, revealing that the country is the first in Africa to ratify the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade. This crucial milestone, approved by the Federal Executive Council, sets the stage for full-scale implementation and grants Nigerian digital services and technology firms unprecedented market access across the continent.
Overcoming Hurdles Through Collaborative Action
The Minister praised the years of teamwork between public institutions, private sector players, and development agencies for this progress. She also gave special recognition to the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) for driving reforms essential to breaking down regulatory and logistical barriers in cross-border trade.
Emphasizing that no nation can succeed alone, Oduwole stressed the need for unity. "We must define clear roles, align institutions, and work as one system," she asserted. A key objective of the summit, which concluded on November 25, 2025, was to develop a performance scorecard for the AfCFTA Central Coordination Committee, ensuring accountability.
Translating Policy into Tangible Benefits for Nigerians
Oduwole challenged all participants to focus on what the AfCFTA truly means for everyday Nigerians—businesses, workers, investors, and low-income communities. She insisted that real success must be measured by improved livelihoods, expanded industrial capacity, and new export opportunities.
She issued an urgent call for Nigeria to diversify its exports, pointing out that trade within Africa is dominated by value-added products. To compete effectively, she urged industry leaders to boost investments in:
- Manufacturing
- Agro-processing
- Textiles
- Digital services
Acknowledging the media's vital role as the voice to over 200 million Nigerians, Oduwole underscored the importance of clear communication to build public understanding of the AfCFTA's opportunities and the ongoing work to resolve technical barriers.
Her rallying cry was clear: "Seizing the promise of the AfCFTA demands collective action. We must act intentionally, support our industries, and build a One African Market that is made, powered and led by Nigeria."
Echoing this sentiment, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, reaffirmed the administration's commitment to fully implementing the single trade agenda for continental prosperity. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nura Abba Rimi, warned against operating in silos, stating that integrated action is the only path forward. The summit continued with technical sessions focused on trade in goods and services, digital trade, and regulatory harmonisation, all aimed at securing Nigeria's leadership in the new AfCFTA era.
