Nigeria is intensifying its efforts to expand digital trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with a strong call to global partners to support its ambition for increased market access and economic growth. Speaking at the World Trade Organization (WTO) Aid for Trade Session in Geneva, Aliyu Bunu Sheriff, Special Assistant to the President on Export Expansion, emphasized Nigeria’s potential as a regional digital trade hub. According to Sheriff, the country aims to become a key player in digital services, making significant contributions to the diversification of its economy.
Sheriff highlighted that digital trade is essential for driving economic growth in Nigeria, particularly under the AfCFTA framework, which boasts a $4.3 trillion market potential. He stressed that with the right policies and infrastructure, Africa, and Nigeria in particular, could fully tap into these opportunities. Nigeria’s strategy includes streamlining trade processes and expanding market access, positioning itself as a leader in digital services across the continent.
In partnership with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, as well as the Overseas Development Institute (ODI UK), Nigeria has already launched several workshops aimed at improving trade processes. These workshops focus on enhancing state-level exports and developing digital payment systems and digital identity solutions for cross-border trade. Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, has played a key role in advancing this agenda, particularly in discussions with the AfCFTA Secretary-General about strengthening regional trade integration and digital infrastructure.
Nigeria has called for increased support from the WTO, development partners, and the private sector to further expand broadband infrastructure, boost MSME capacity-building, and facilitate seamless cross-border digital payments. Sheriff concluded by asserting that Nigeria is not only participating in Africa’s digital trade transformation but is actively leading it, urging global partners to collaborate in unlocking the full potential of Africa’s digital economy.
Source: Leadership