The National Coordinator of the Nigeria AfCFTA Coordination Office, Mr. Olusegun Awolowo has asserted that Trade, Technology and Inclusive Finance are critical to building the future of Nigeria.
He made this declaration in his keynote address at the 2024 Annual Dialogue Series hosted by the FATE Foundation with the theme, “Nigeria in the Next Decade: Building a Thriving Entrepreneurial Ecosystem for the Future,”
The National Coordinator emphasized the transformative opportunities presented by the AfCFTA for Nigeria’s entrepreneurs which include expanding market access through digital trade to creating inclusive finance solutions for MSMEs.
“AfCFTA is a powerful tool for driving innovation, growth, and job creation” , Awolowo said.
He also emphasized on the importance of digital transformation and access to inclusive finance for MSMEs to thrive in the AfCFTA.
Awolowo highlighted the importance of the informal sector which holds significant untapped potential and which must be formalized to fully utilise the opportunities that AfCFTA offers in integrating Nigeria’s businesses into a $3.4 trillion market.
“Let’s seize this golden opportunity to elevate Nigerian entrepreneurship to new heights and remember that everything Africa needs for Africa is in Africa”, he submitted.
Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Hon. Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment and Chairman of Nigeria AfCTA Coordination Office was present at the event.
