Tinubu Seals Big Trade Win As Nigeria, UAE Sign Landmark Economic Pact

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday witnessed the signing of a landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates, a deal expected to significantly expand trade, unlock new investment flows and deepen economic cooperation between both countries.

The agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, following months of negotiations between both governments.

Nigeria’s number one citizen attended the ceremony at the invitation of UAE President, His Highness Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, underscoring the high-level political backing behind the pact.

Describing the agreement as the product of “sustained and disciplined work,” Tinubu commended Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and her UAE counterpart, Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, for what he called the “seriousness and clarity that brought these negotiations to a conclusion.”

“For Nigerians, this agreement is not abstract,” the President said, adding “It opens duty-free access for thousands of Nigerian products into the UAE, expands opportunities for our exporters, manufacturers and service providers, and gives UAE investors clearer confidence to back Nigeria’s productive economy.”

The CEPA is expected to remove tariffs on a wide range of Nigerian goods entering the UAE market, while also simplifying trade procedures and improving market access for services.

Analysts say the deal could strengthen Nigeria’s non-oil exports at a time the country is pushing to diversify foreign exchange earnings and reduce reliance on crude oil.

According to the president, the agreement aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic reform agenda, particularly efforts to promote industrialisation and position the country as a regional trade hub.

“This comprehensive agreement supports our industrialisation and diversification goals and strengthens Nigeria’s position as a gateway for trade and investment into Africa,” he gave further insight.

Officials involved in the negotiations say the pact also provides greater certainty for UAE investors seeking opportunities in Nigeria’s manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture and services sectors, as reforms aimed at improving the business environment continue to take shape.

Tinubu framed the agreement as part of a wider strategy of economic diplomacy anchored on targeted partnerships.

“This is the work of economic reform, purposeful engagement and measured partnerships,” he said, assuring that “the outcomes will serve Nigeria’s long-term national interest.”

He expressed optimism that the renewed Nigeria-UAE relationship would deliver lasting benefits.

“May the renewed relationship between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates continue to yield sustained dividends for both nations and our peoples,” the president said with strong faith.