Nigeria Trains Agencies and Businesses on AfCFTA Rules 

The Federal Government has taken steps to prepare Nigerians for the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by organizing an advanced workshop on the Rules of Origin. The training, held in Abuja, brought together trade agencies and members of the Organised Private Sector to deepen knowledge about how businesses can take advantage of Africa’s largest free trade market. 

AfCFTA creates a single market covering 54 African countries, giving Nigerian businesses access to millions of consumers without heavy trade barriers. But to benefit, enterprises must understand and comply with the Rules of Origin, which determine whether a product qualifies as African-made. 

Government and Partners Driving Growth 

According to the National Coordinator of the Nigeria AfCFTA Coordination Office, Olusegun Awolowo, the training is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to boost industrial growth and regional integration. He explained: 

“Our goal is to empower enterprises to master product-specific rules, ensure compliance, and secure greater market access across Africa.” 

The training was organised with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) under the EU-WCO Rules of Origin for Africa Programme and facilitated by the Nigeria Customs Service led by Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi. 

“AfCFTA is more than a trade agreement; it is a gateway for Nigerian businesses to expand across Africa. By mastering the Rules of Origin, our enterprises can unlock new markets, reduce costs, and drive inclusive economic growth.” 

How Businesses Can Benefit 

To succeed under AfCFTA, Nigerian businesses must: 

Understand the Rules of Origin: This ensures their products are recognised as African-made and can access African markets duty-free. 

Improve product quality: Businesses that meet regional standards can compete better across borders. 

Expand markets: With AfCFTA, SMEs and manufacturers are no longer limited to Nigeria’s market but can trade across Africa. 

Reduce costs: Compliance with AfCFTA rules can help avoid unnecessary tariffs and increase profit margins. 

Seek training and guidance: The Nigeria AfCFTA Coordination Office plans more workshops nationwide, making it easier for businesses to learn and grow. 

Building a Stronger Trade Future 

Experts from the WCO also emphasized that human capital development is crucial. By training entrepreneurs and trade officials, Nigeria will reduce import dependence and increase exports, strengthening its economy and global trade presence.  

AfCFTA offers Nigeria a chance to become a trade leader in Africa, but only prepared businesses can benefit. By learning and applying the Rules of Origin, Nigerian enterprises can grow beyond local boundaries, access bigger markets, and boost the nation’s economy.