By Isaac Olufemi Ojo
The Federal Government has charged state governments to harness the vast opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to accelerate industrialisation, boost exports, and drive job creation across the country.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, stated this during a strategic engagement with State Commissioners of Commerce, Trade and Investment in Abuja, noting that the move is central to the administration’s economic diversification strategy.
Oduwole emphasised that strengthening the nexus between federal and state governments is essential for expanding market access and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness. To this end, the ministry has flagged off nationwide sensitisation tours to equip local businesses with the tools needed for cross-border trade.
“Every state and local government has exportable products capable of joining regional and continental value chains,” the minister said, urging subnational governments to identify and promote their competitive sectors.
She further announced that Nigeria is set to host the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) and the Intra-African Trade Fair in Lagos in November 2027. She called on states to mobilise their local manufacturers and entrepreneurs to leverage these events, particularly as Nigeria prepares to assume the chairmanship of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers.
Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, corroborated the need for synergy, noting that since most manufacturing hubs and industrial clusters are domiciled in states, federal-state collaboration remains vital for the success of the National Industrial Policy.
Responding on behalf of the commissioners, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, lauded the initiative. She pledged the commitment of state governments to align their programmes with the Renewed Hope Agenda, ensuring that Nigeria is positioned as Africa’s leading trade and investment destination.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Chris Isokpunwu, added that such engagements are critical to translating national policies into tangible economic benefits. He further invited the commissioners to the upcoming 17th National Council on Industry in Enugu to deepen policy coordination.
