Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has advocated for a stronger economic partnership with Switzerland, facilitated by the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). During a meeting with the Swiss EFTA delegation in Abuja, Akpabio emphasized that such collaboration could lead to mutual prosperity, enhancing sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and sustainability. He referenced the 2017 repatriation of $321 million in recovered funds as a foundation for trust between the two nations.
Akpabio highlighted Nigeria’s strategic position as Africa’s largest economy and its involvement in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as key to fostering productive partnerships with EFTA countries. He also praised the economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including the unification of the naira and the removal of fuel subsidies, which are attracting foreign investment and promoting growth.
Thomas Aeshi, leader of the Swiss EFTA delegation, outlined the visit’s goal of establishing economic partnerships with Nigeria. While no formal trade agreement exists yet, the visit aimed to lay the groundwork for future collaboration. Aeshi emphasized EFTA’s commitment to free trade and economic cooperation, and Akpabio expressed confidence that the partnership would lead to shared success.
Source: BUSINESS DAY