ABUJA, Nigeria – The U.S.-Africa Trade Commission ignited fresh momentum in U.S.-Africa trade and investment at its Business Networking Lunch-Hour Workshop held at the ENVOY Hotel in Abuja’s Central Business District on Friday, February 28, 2025.
The workshop, themed “Enhancing U.S.-Africa Trade & Investment Through Strategic Partnerships,” brought together a diverse group of entrepreneurs, trade experts, and government officials. With Nigeria at the epicenter, discussions highlighted the potential for deeper economic integration between the United States and Africa, as well as the vast opportunities available across sectors such as technology, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Setting the Stage for Strategic Collaboration
In her opening remarks, Ms. Taiwo Adekanye, Managing Partner of JD GLOBAL LIGHT CONSULT LTD, emphasized the critical role of strategic alliances. “This is about more than trade—it’s about building a future of shared prosperity,” she declared, inspiring attendees to consider how robust partnerships could transform economic landscapes.
Nigeria at the Forefront of Trade Innovation
Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji, Director of Economy, Trade & Investment at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, delivered the keynote address, positioning Nigeria as a pivotal trade powerhouse. He underscored the nation’s open markets and extensive opportunities, enhanced by initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Ambassador Bolaji’s remarks resonated with the audience, as he discussed Nigeria’s youthful demographic, rich natural resources, and burgeoning middle class—all seen as magnets for U.S. investment.
Navigating the U.S. Market and Unlocking Service Exports
Dr. Titus Olowokere, Executive Director and CEO of the U.S.-Africa Trade Commission, followed with an in-depth presentation on accessing the U.S. market. Highlighting the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as a key gateway, he offered practical guidance on compliance, certification, and logistics. “Know the rules, meet the standards, and the U.S. is yours to conquer,” he advised, encouraging Nigerian businesses to pursue long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships.
Complementing this, Mr. Brandon Smith, Vice President (International Trade) of the Commission, spotlighted Nigeria’s robust capabilities in IT, entertainment, and professional services. Smith showcased how sectors like Nollywood and tech hubs can tap into the U.S. market by embracing service exports, a rapidly growing segment that promises high returns.
Networking Paves the Way for Future Deals
The workshop’s dynamic networking segment allowed participants to engage in meaningful discussions, exploring deals ranging from tech exports to energy partnerships. Attendees also candidly discussed infrastructural challenges, such as Nigeria’s ongoing power issues, acknowledging that sustainable progress requires overcoming such hurdles.
A Springboard for U.S.-Africa Economic Ties
The event, which concluded at 2:30 PM, left a strong impression on all who attended. Participants departed with not only fresh insights into navigating international trade but also a reinforced commitment to forging strategic partnerships that could spur economic transformation across continents.
This innovative workshop has set the stage for an era of renewed U.S.-Africa economic cooperation, with Nigeria emerging as a leader in this ambitious endeavor.
Reported by Newspot Nigeria
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