Nigeria, UN leverage AfCFTA to deepen economic partnership

Nigeria and the United Nations have reinforced their partnership to tackle critical development challenges, with a renewed focus on boosting trade, enhancing social welfare and driving sustainable economic growth.

To this end, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, at the weekend, hosted Amina Mohammed, the United Nations (UN) Deputy Secretary-General at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja to design a blueprint that will foster economic development cemented by a reinvigorated partnership.

According to Mohammed Manga, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Finance, discussions focused on utilising the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) as a vehicle to expand Nigeria’s trade and deepen its economic ties across the continent.

“The meeting addressed strategies for improving food security, strengthening social protection systems to meet the socio-economic needs of Nigerians, and identifying ways the UN can mobilize its resources and expertise to support the country’s development goals,” Manga said.

The UN delegation, led by Amina Mohammed, included Leonardo Simão, UN Special Representative; Sa’adatu Shuaibu, UN Political Affairs Officer; Zubaida Mahmoud, UN Representative; and Sergio Mate, UN Special Assistant. Together with Nigeria’s finance team, they explored solutions to pressing challenges, aligning development strategies with national and global priorities.

Wale Edun, joined by the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, expressed gratitude for Amina Mohammed’s sustained commitment to Nigeria. He highlighted the administration’s progress in social safety initiatives, particularly the digitalization of its Direct Benefit Transfers program, aimed at enhancing efficiency and transparency.

“The Minister detailed advancements in agriculture, noting significant improvements in wet and dry season farming as a result of targeted government support,” Manga added.

The meeting, he noted, highlighted the UN’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through tailored expertise and resources. Amina Mohammed reaffirmed the UN’s dedication to addressing critical issues such as food security, economic resilience, and regional collaboration.

“This partnership marks a significant step forward, opening up opportunities for enhanced cooperation on Nigeria’s development journey,” Manga added.

Manga said with the collaboration, Nigeria aims to leverage international expertise to achieve its ambitious goals for economic growth and social progress.

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