Nigeria Advocates Freer Movement to Boost African Trade

The Nigerian government is intensifying efforts to promote freer movement across Africa to boost trade and investment, as articulated by Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, during an interview in Abuja.

Oduwole discussed the outcomes of the Biashara Afrika 2026 forum held in Togo, highlighting that trade cannot thrive if entrepreneurs and investors face movement restrictions. She emphasized the government's commitment to removing barriers that hinder trade and business mobility across African markets.

Oduwole praised Togo's leadership for its commitment to removing visa requirements for African travel, aligning with the vision of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She noted Nigeria's ongoing engagement with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the African Union to simplify visa procedures and enhance market access for Nigerian businesses.

Additionally, Oduwole mentioned the inauguration of the Nigeria-Uganda air cargo corridor to improve export access, particularly for small and medium enterprises and women-owned businesses, while addressing non-tariff barriers and high logistics costs.