Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates have formally signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a major bilateral trade deal designed to significantly expand economic cooperation, increase trade volumes, attract investments, and deepen ties between the two nations.
The agreement was concluded following intensive negotiations and represents one of the most ambitious trade pacts Nigeria has entered into in recent years.
It covers a wide range of areas including:
- Elimination or substantial reduction of tariffs on goods
- Liberalisation of trade in services
- Investment promotion and protection
- Cooperation in digital economy, innovation, and technology transfer
- Customs procedures and trade facilitation
- Intellectual property rights
- Sustainable development and environmental standards
The CEPA is expected to unlock new opportunities for Nigerian exporters, particularly in non-oil sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, solid minerals, creative industries, and services.
In return, the UAE, a global trade and investment hub will gain enhanced access to the large Nigerian market and West African region.
Key anticipated benefits include:
Boosting two-way trade, which has grown steadily but remains below potential
Attracting Emirati investment into Nigeria’s infrastructure, energy, logistics, real estate, and renewable energy sectors
Creating jobs and supporting economic diversification away from oil dependence
Strengthening Nigeria’s position as a gateway to African markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
The signing marks a new chapter in Nigeria-UAE relations, building on existing strong diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties, including significant Emirati investments in Nigerian aviation, hospitality, and real estate.
Officials from both countries described the CEPA as a strategic move that aligns with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda for economic transformation and the UAE’s vision of expanding global trade partnerships beyond the Gulf region.
The agreement is expected to take effect following ratification processes in both countries and will be implemented in phases, with immediate benefits in selected sectors.
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