The Federal Government has concluded its first five-year review of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) implementation, in furtherance of its bid to enhance intra-African trade and establish itself as a regional economic hub.
The assessment, in line with Article 28 of the AfCFTA Agreement, was coordinated by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment with support from the UNDP.
According to the Ministry, the review evaluated progress on protocols such as Trade in Goods, Trade in Services, and dispute settlement procedures, and resulted in actionable policy recommendations to strengthen institutional readiness and coordination.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said the review was crucial for measuring performance, addressing gaps, and reinforcing Nigeria’s strategic positioning within the AfCFTA.
She noted that the exercise revealed the need for a multi-stakeholder approach, greater institutional investment, and evidence-based policymaking.
Dr. Oduwole added that the findings would inform the CCC’s work programme and Nigeria’s broader trade strategy, aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
She also urged other member states to carry out similar assessments and pledged Nigeria’s readiness to share expertise in pursuit of Africa’s collective prosperity.