The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its long-term economic commitment to Nigeria, emphasizing growing trade volumes, deeper investment activity, and new opportunities in technology and infrastructure. UAE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Saeed Bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, stated that the relationship with Nigeria is increasingly shaped by long-term economic priorities rather than short-term external developments. He noted that Nigeria has become an increasingly important partner within the UAE's broader engagement across Africa, reflecting growing economic ties between the Gulf nation and one of the continent's largest markets.
Trade Growth and Economic Diversification
Non-oil trade between the UAE and Nigeria has grown significantly, increasing from approximately $1.3 billion in 2020 to nearly $4.9 billion in 2025. This growth reflects broader diversification in economic engagement. Al Hajeri attributed this consistency to the UAE's globally connected economy and long-term investment approach. He added that years of investment in infrastructure, logistics, and supply-chain resilience have helped maintain continuity across trade corridors and support stable commercial relationships across West Africa.
Future Focus on Innovation and Investment
Beyond trade, the UAE noted that the next phase of engagement with Nigeria will increasingly center on investment, innovation, and economic transformation. According to Al Hajeri, the UAE's partnerships across Africa now extend across more than 50 countries, covering sectors including sustainable energy, food security, infrastructure, education, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and healthcare. He pointed to the UAE's expanding Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement programme, which includes agreements across ten African economies and is intended to support stronger investment and commercial connectivity.
AI for Development Initiative
In parallel, the UAE has launched its USD 1 billion 'AI for Development in Africa' initiative, announced at the G20 Summit in South Africa. This initiative aims to support projects that strengthen digital ecosystems, expand economic opportunities, and accelerate sustainable development. Al Hajeri emphasized that the UAE-Nigeria partnership is evolving beyond trade toward long-term economic transformation, driven by innovation, technology, and strategic investment, within a framework of cooperation that fosters mutual prosperity for both peoples.
