Nigeria and the Ugandan governments have strengthened trade relations following the appointment of the Ugandan Trade Representative Ani Bassey-Eyo to Nigeria, marking a step in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
According to a statement, the appointment preceded the signing of commitment export orders, paving the way for Uganda’s first official shipment of goods to Nigeria.
The event held in December 2024 coincided with the commissioning of the Free Zones Export facility at Entebbe International Airport and the launch of Uganda’s AfCFTA Implementation Strategy.
Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, who witnessed the signing, described regional trade as a catalyst for economic transformation, stating, “I am pleased to kick off the journey for the first formal exports of Ugandan products to West Africa under AfCFTA.”
“As Africa awakens to its economic potential, it becomes evident that domestic markets alone are not sufficient. Expanding trade across the continent is essential for sustainable growth,” he added.
The first shipment, expected in the first quarter of 2025, will include coffee, black and green tea, milk, fish, and pharmaceuticals. The pilot consignment aims to assess market demand in Nigeria and lay the groundwork for further trade expansion.
Museveni commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the initiative and facilitating the entry of Ugandan products into the Nigerian market. He urged African nations to strengthen commercial ties and harness the continent’s economic potential.
Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Francis Mwebesa, highlighted the role of free zones in attracting investment and creating jobs.
Similarly, Permanent Secretary Lynette Bagonza praised the collaborative efforts of government ministries and the private sector in shaping Uganda’s trade strategy.
Uganda noted its push into Nigeria’s market aligns with its broader ambition to position itself as a regional trade hub.
Beyond Nigeria, the country added its plans to expand exports to other AfCFTA member states by leveraging trade corridors and improving infrastructure.
