ABUJA — Nigeria and Rwanda are moving to unlock new trade and investment opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with plans to establish a joint business forum and accelerate bilateral agreements.
This followed a meeting between the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Moses Rugema, in Abuja, according to a statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
Rugema said both countries are working towards convening the Nigeria-Rwanda Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) to finalise outstanding agreements and strengthen economic ties.
He also proposed the creation of a Nigeria-Rwanda Business Forum to boost private sector collaboration and expand cross-border investments.
“The opportunities presented by the AfCFTA can significantly enhance trade and investment between our countries,” Rugema noted.
Enikanolaiye, in his response, emphasised the need to convert strong diplomatic relations into measurable economic outcomes.
“We must translate our excellent political relations into tangible economic benefits through increased trade, investment and private sector engagement,” he said.
The talks highlighted key sectors for cooperation, including information and communication technology, agriculture, healthcare, defence and capacity building.
Both sides also underscored the importance of regional collaboration in tackling security threats such as terrorism, violent extremism and organised crime.
“They agreed that African-led solutions and stronger cooperation remain critical to achieving lasting peace and stability,” the statement said.
Enikanolaiye further stressed the value of sharing governance and development experiences to support broader continental goals, including the African Union Agenda 2063.
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to fast-tracking bilateral initiatives and expanding economic engagement, expressing optimism that closer cooperation would drive growth, integration and sustainable development across Africa.
