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ABUJA -Nigeria has strengthened its leadership role in advancing continental economic integration as the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has officially assumed office as the Chairperson of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Council of Ministers Responsible for Trade.
The development marks a significant milestone for Nigeria and underscores the country’s commitment to deepening intra-African trade, promoting industrialisation, and accelerating sustainable economic growth across the continent.
As Chairperson of the Council, Dr. Oduwole will provide strategic leadership in coordinating the implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement, facilitating policy dialogue among member states, and advancing initiatives aimed at removing trade barriers, expanding market access, and strengthening Africa’s position in global trade.
Speaking on the significance of the appointment, the Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working closely with all AfCFTA member states to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement and to unlock new opportunities for businesses, manufacturers, exporters, and investors across Africa.
Nigeria’s assumption of the chairmanship comes at a critical time as African countries intensify efforts to operationalise the world’s largest free trade area by number of participating countries, with the objective of boosting intra-African trade, creating jobs, enhancing value addition, and fostering inclusive economic development.
