Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, has identified exports as Nigeria’s most viable path to economic recovery, outlining bold strategies to harness the nation’s untapped potential in global trade.
Speaking at the World Trade Center (WTC) Abuja’s “Sapphire Soirée,” Oduwole rallied both public and private sectors to unite in positioning Nigeria as a dominant player in international markets.
“Exports are Nigeria’s future. The current currency challenges, while difficult, present a unique opportunity. Local products have become more affordable on the global stage, giving Nigerian businesses an edge in export,” Oduwole explained.
The Minister revealed the government’s 2025 focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which she described as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.
“We are committed to handholding SMEs through the export process. With the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) eliminating trade barriers, Nigerian businesses can now expand across the continent seamlessly,” she said.
Beyond goods, Oduwole spotlighted the often-overlooked export potential in services, including fintech, edutech, and cultural industries.
According to her, “Nigerian services are highly competitive globally. With the right regulatory environment, businesses can earn foreign exchange while operating locally. We want every entrepreneur to know that they can export their services directly from Nigeria.”
Ahmed Karim Adelaja, Vice President of WTC Abuja, reinforced the Minister’s call for an export-driven economy by unveiling WTC Abuja’s ambitious 2025 agenda.
Among the initiatives are the launch of a Trade Accelerator Programme to prepare businesses for global markets, participation in the Global Business Forum in Marseille, France, to strengthen trade ties, and the introduction of cutting-edge security measures to position WTC Abuja as Nigeria’s most secure commercial hub.
He said: “At WTC Abuja, we are more than a landmark; we are Nigeria’s strategic gateway to global trade.
“Our mission is clear: to attract international brands, foster innovation, and unlock global opportunities for Nigerian enterprises.”
The Minister commended WTC Abuja’s efforts and aligned them with President Bola Tinubu’s recent international investment missions to South Africa, France, and Brazil.
“The federal government is actively courting foreign investments, but we need the private sector to mirror these efforts. Together, we can create a thriving ecosystem for trade and investment,” she urged.
