The UAE and Nigeria have taken a decisive step toward deepening economic ties with the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations.
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attended the signing ceremony, which signals a new phase of expanded trade, investment, and strategic cooperation. The agreement was concluded on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed described the CEPA as a landmark development that reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening global trade partnerships and unlocking new opportunities for shared economic growth. President Tinubu highlighted the agreement’s role in creating fresh avenues for trade and investment, reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to advancing mutual development priorities.
The agreement was signed by Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, and Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment. It is designed to reduce tariffs, remove trade barriers, and enhance cooperation across both public and private sectors.
Key sectors set to benefit include technology, agriculture, energy, and precious metals. The deal also focuses on strengthening supply chains and enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to access global markets.
Bilateral non-oil trade reached US$4.3 billion in 2024, a 55.3 percent increase compared to the previous year. Trade continued to grow in 2025, with US$3.1 billion recorded in the first nine months alone.
The UAE-Nigeria CEPA reinforces the UAE’s broader foreign trade strategy, which aims to raise non-oil trade to US$1.1 trillion by 2031 and expand partnerships with high-growth economies worldwide.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
