Dr. Muda Yusuf (Founder/CEO, CPPE)
Well, we should celebrate the take-off of it. That is worth celebrating. But that is just the beginning of the work. What is now left is how we sustain it. We need to build momentum around this issue. We need to get more people on board. We need to create more awareness. So, there is still a lot of work to be done. But we must commend this first step. It’s a step that is highly commendable, but there is still a lot of work to be done to build momentum around it.
Captain Tajudeen Alao (National
The Guided Trade Initiative launch in Nigeria is a very good action. However, I believe follow up must follow these great feats. We are still far behind in Nigeria compared to some African countries. There should be a proper framework and policy guidelines expected to drive this initiative, which must be strictly adhered to. It also requires funding the sector and the banks should also be interested in driving it. However, it is not yet Uhuru. We still have a long way to go.
Innocent Elum (BoT Secretary, AREFFN)
The Guided Trade Initiative is meant to test-run the operation of the African Continental Free Trade Area. However, Is it Uhuru for AfCFTA? Is its success guaranteed by the GTI? My answer would be a capital No. The truth is, with African nations having different currencies, and with Nigeria’s propensity to arbitrarily close her land borders against other African countries, I don’t see AfCFTA achieving its objectives until these issues are addressed.
Rev. Nicodemus Odolo (Trustee, Shippers Association of Lagos State)
Nigeria’s participation in the Guided Trade Initiative is a laudable step in improving the economy particularly our exports. However, I would say it is not uhuru yet, because we are just starting. But I believe that as we continue by and by, taking the right directions and following the stipulated guidelines, we will perfect and reap the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.
Babatunde Mukaila (Immediate Past National Secretary, ANLCA)
It is not yet uhuru. We need to do more to be ready for openness and other African countries’ competitions that will ensue. The Nigerian Customs Service as the lead agency of government will need deeper collaboration with other relevant government agencies, as well as being mindful of trade facilitations, rather than revenue generation.
Dr. Segun Musa (Deputy National President, Air and Logistics, NAGAFF)
Definitely No! It is not yet Uhuru for Nigeria despite the launch of the Guided Trade Initiative under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. This fire brigade approach will not translate into any meaningful participation, but rather remain a propaganda or make-believe action. All hands need to be on deck in order to achieve the benefits of AfCFTA.
