# UAE and Nigeria Forge New Economic Partnership, Aiming for $1.1 Trillion Trade Goal
A landmark Complete Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the United Arab emirates and Nigeria was signed, signaling a notable step towards deepened trade and investment relations and lasting development for both nations. The agreement,witnessed by high-level officials from both countries,promises to unlock new opportunities across key sectors.
The CEPA represents a “qualitative step” in the development of bilateral ties, according to a statement from the UAE President. The agreement underscores the UAES dedication to fostering development partnerships globally, with a focus on mutual economic growth and comprehensive progress.
Nigeria’s President echoed this sentiment,emphasizing the agreement’s potential to open new avenues for economic and trade cooperation,aligning with his country’s development objectives. The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, highlighting the commitment of both nations to responsible economic growth.
Reducing Barriers to Boost Trade
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The agreement, formalized by UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi and Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Jomoke Oduwole, focuses on reducing customs duties and dismantling trade barriers. This strategic move is designed to stimulate trade and investment flows, notably in sectors like technology, agriculture, precious metals, and energy.
Beyond tariff reductions, the CEPA aims to strengthen collaboration between the private sector in both countries, fortify supply chains, and empower small and medium-sized companies to access broader global markets.This focus on inclusivity is expected to drive widespread economic benefits.
UAE’s CEPA Program: A Broader Strategy
This partnership with Nigeria is a key component of the UAE’s enterprising Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements Programme, launched in September 2021. The program serves as a cornerstone of the UAE’s foreign trade strategy, aiming to increase the value of non-oil foreign trade to 4 trillion dirhams ($1.1 trillion) by 2031.
The program’s impact is already being felt.In 2024,it contributed to a record $810 billion in non-oil trade,a 14% increase year-over-year. With 32 agreements reached – 14 already in force – the UAE is actively championing open, rules-based international trade to fuel economic diversification and create opportunities for businesses in high-growth markets.
Soaring bilateral Trade Figures
Trade between the UAE and Nigeria has demonstrated significant growth in recent years. Non-oil trade reached $4.3 billion in 2024, representing a ample 55.3% increase compared to 2023. This positive trend continued into 2025, with $3.1 billion in non-oil trade recorded during the first nine months of the year.
this CEPA is poised to further accelerate this growth, with both nations targeting a long-term trade goal of $1.1 trillion.
Why: The CEPA aims to boost economic growth and diversification for both the UAE and Nigeria by reducing trade barriers and fostering investment. Who: The
