Nigeria and Uganda have strengthened their trade relations with the appointment of Ani Bassey-Eyo as Uganda’s Trade Representative to Nigeria.
This move is seen as a key step in advancing the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
The statement revealed that the appointment of Ani Bassey-Eyo was followed by the signing of commitment export orders, clearing the way for Uganda’s inaugural official shipment of goods to Nigeria.
Uganda’s President, Yoweri Museveni, who was present at the signing, hailed regional trade as a driving force for economic transformation. He expressed his satisfaction, saying, “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 inaugural shipment, slated for the first quarter of 2025, will feature products such as coffee, black and green tea, milk, fish, and pharmaceuticals.
This pilot consignment is designed to evaluate market demand in Nigeria and establish a foundation for future trade growth between the two countries.
Museveni praised President Bola Tinubu for his support of the initiative and for facilitating the entry of Ugandan products into the Nigerian market.
He called on African nations to strengthen their commercial relationships and fully tap into the continent’s economic potential.
Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Francis Mwebesa emphasized the importance of free zones in attracting investment and generating employment opportunities.
In addition to Nigeria, Uganda outlined plans to expand exports to other AfCFTA member states by utilizing trade corridors and enhancing infrastructure.