The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Nigeria have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a significant milestone in trade and investment relations between the two nations.
The agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi in the presence of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, signalling the start of expanded economic cooperation.
Under the deal, tariffs and trade barriers will be reduced, investment flows increased, and opportunities created in key sectors including technology, agriculture, energy, and precious metals.
The agreement is also expected to strengthen supply chains, boost public and private-sector collaboration, and support small and medium-sized enterprises in accessing global markets.
The CEPA was signed by UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi and Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
President Tinubu emphasised that the agreement is not abstract for Nigerians, as it opens duty-free access for thousands of Nigerian products into the UAE, expands opportunities for exporters, manufacturers, and service providers, and gives UAE investors confidence to back Nigeria’s productive economy.
He added that the CEPA supports Nigeria’s industrialisation and diversification goals and strengthens the country’s position as a gateway for trade and investment into Africa.
“The outcomes will serve Nigeria’s long-term national interest. May the renewed relationship between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates continue to yield sustained dividends for both nations and our peoples,” Tinubu said.
The agreement reflects purposeful economic reforms and strategic international partnerships aimed at driving growth and boosting Nigeria’s global trade footprint.
