Nigeria and Cameroon have launched the Mfum-Ekok Border Modernisation Initiative, a joint project aimed at upgrading border infrastructure, deploying technology and reducing trade bottlenecks along a key regional corridor.

The initiative was unveiled on Wednesday during a joint assessment exercise involving the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Cameroon Customs Administration.

The project is expected to improve trade facilitation and border efficiency while supporting the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The Mfum-Ekok corridor links Cross River State in Nigeria with Cameroon’s South-West Region and serves as an important route for the movement of goods and people between both countries.

Nigeria, Cameroon assess one-stop border post

As part of the initiative, customs officials from both countries commenced a joint assessment of the Ekok-Mfum One-Stop Border Post (OSBP).

The exercise was held in Mfum, near Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State, under the theme, “Leveraging the Nigeria Customs Service Trade Modernisation Project.”

Speaking at the event, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the initiative builds on existing cooperation between the customs administrations of Nigeria and Cameroon.

“We are not building from nothing. We are taking something that works between the two of us,” Adeniyi said.

He said the assessment would examine how existing bilateral cooperation could be expanded to deliver greater economic benefits for the region and Africa.

Adeniyi noted that despite the strong historical and cultural ties between communities on both sides of the border, the movement of goods and people remained less efficient than expected.

AfDB, ECOWAS, Afreximbank support project

The Customs chief identified the African Development Bank (AfDB), ECOWAS, Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), Afreximbank and AfCFTA Secretariat among development partners supporting the initiative.

He also disclosed that Nigerian and Cameroonian customs officials recently undertook a study tour of the Beitbridge Border Post between South Africa and Zimbabwe to examine international best practices in border management.

According to Adeniyi, technical teams from both countries are currently working on a joint operational agreement expected to be signed at the forthcoming C-PACT conference.

Cameroon seeks real-time data sharing

Cameroon’s Director-General of Customs, Fongod Nuvaga, described the joint assessment as a major step towards coordinated border operations.

Nuvaga said the initiative would improve efficiency through enhanced cooperation, real-time data exchange and joint risk-management systems.

He said improved information sharing could reduce duplication in cargo inspections and traveller screening, helping to accelerate trade flows and improve the experience of businesses and commuters.

The Cameroonian customs chief stressed that coordinated border management would allow goods and travellers to undergo more efficient processing instead of facing repetitive checks on both sides.

World Bank highlights Africa’s trade barriers

The initiative comes amid wider efforts to tackle structural barriers affecting trade across Africa.

A recent World Bank report, “Integrating Africa: From Threads to Hubs,” found that nearly 60 per cent of Africa’s total trade costs originate from behind-the-border barriers rather than tariffs or border controls.

The report identified customs inefficiencies, regulatory misalignment, poor logistics services, fragmented transit systems and inadequate infrastructure among the factors driving high trade costs.

The World Bank said reducing tariffs alone would not significantly lower trade costs unless countries also addressed domestic constraints affecting the movement of goods and services.

The Nigeria-Cameroon border initiative therefore forms part of broader efforts to strengthen regional trade, logistics and economic integration across Africa.

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that Nigeria attracted nearly $20 billion in foreign direct investments (FDI) this year, attributing the inflow to reforms introduced by his administration to improve transparency, efficiency and investor confidence.

Speaking during a panel session at the ongoing Africa CEO Forum, President Tinubu said the government’s economic reforms are gradually positioning Nigeria as a more attractive and competitive destination for investors.

“In Nigeria, we’ve attracted nearly $20 billion in direct investment this year because we are efficient, transparent and open for business,” the President said.

Tinubu Pushes Local Value Addition for Mineral Resources

The President stressed that Nigeria would no longer support the export of raw minerals without domestic value addition, noting that the country possesses the capacity to process mineral resources into finished products.

He specifically pointed to opportunities in electric vehicle manufacturing, stating that Nigeria has the resources required to produce batteries and support industrial growth.

“With our metals, we can produce batteries for cars. The private sector brings capital and expertise, but government must de-risk and create the enabling environment,” he said.

Tinubu explained that stronger collaboration between government and investors remains critical to accelerating development across Africa.

President Calls for Full Implementation of AfCFTA

The President also urged African countries to move beyond discussions and fully activate the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

According to him, African nations must work together and maximise the continent’s resources rather than operating in isolation.

“We have the African Continental Free Trade Area—it must not sit on the shelf. It needs to be activated properly through collaboration and effective use of resources,” Tinubu said.

He advocated an “Africa First” development strategy that prioritises local production, processing and manufacturing.

“We don’t want scavengers and extractors. We want partners who process and manufacture locally,” he added.

Dangote Refinery Shows Africa Can Deliver Large Projects

Tinubu cited the success of the Dangote Refinery as evidence that African nations can execute large-scale industrial projects when supported with the right policies.

According to him, Nigeria’s transition from dependence on imported petroleum products to becoming a net exporter demonstrates the impact of strategic government support.

“Today Nigeria is a net exporter of PMS, aviation fuel and other products. Dangote is supplying aviation fuel across Africa and to European airlines,” he said.

Tinubu Calls for African Financial Reforms

The President also questioned Africa’s continued dependence on foreign currencies for trade transactions.

He argued that conducting trade using local currencies would reduce costs and improve economic stability across the continent.

“If you produce in Nigeria, you can trade in naira. Why should African trade depend on dollars? That adds cost and instability,” he said.

Tinubu proposed an African commodity exchange platform that would allow direct trade among African countries.

He further called for the establishment of an African credit rating agency, arguing that many international rating firms do not properly understand African economic realities.

“The big American agencies dominate 95 per cent of the market, but they don’t understand our risks and opportunities,” he stated.

Nigeria Expands Digital Infrastructure

On digital development, Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria is currently laying 19,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables nationwide to improve connectivity and strengthen the digital economy.

He noted that Africa must move beyond basic telecommunications and begin investing in broader digital systems, including artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and data infrastructure.

“We need to fund Africa’s shift from basic telecoms to AI and e-commerce,” he said.

The President expressed optimism that despite current challenges, stronger cooperation and commitment among African nations would eventually drive greater economic integration.

“Pan-Africanism can’t remain a slogan. It has to be lived,” he said.

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Nigeria’s real estate sector is entering a new growth phase, with industry analysts projecting that five emerging segments will drive expansion over the next decade, as the market shifts away from traditional property models.

According to insights from BusinessDay, the future of real estate in Nigeria and across Africa will be shaped by specialised sectors designed to meet the demands of a rapidly urbanising and technology-driven population.

Analysts say the industry is gradually moving beyond luxury high-rises and conventional office spaces toward more functional and impact-driven developments.

These emerging segments include purpose-built student accommodation, industrial and logistics real estate, data centres, healthcare infrastructure, and mid-market residential housing targeted at young professionals.

Data indicates that institutional investment in traditional real estate segments surged by 260 per cent to $1.8 billion over six years, reflecting growing investor confidence. However, market experts believe the next wave of growth will come from alternative asset classes with stronger long-term fundamentals.

Research by Fotren and Company highlights increasing investor appetite for these sectors, driven by evolving economic realities and demographic shifts.

Purpose-built student accommodation is gaining traction as rising enrolment across higher institutions continues to outpace available housing supply. Analysts estimate that existing student housing stock meets less than 30 per cent of demand, creating significant opportunities for private investment.

In the industrial and logistics segment, the rapid expansion of e-commerce and trade integration is fueling demand for modern warehousing, cold storage, and distribution infrastructure.

The sector is further supported by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to boost intra-African trade and strengthen supply chains across major economic corridors.

Technology-driven real estate, particularly data centres, is also emerging as a critical growth area. With Africa accounting for a significant share of global mobile money transactions and experiencing rapid growth in data usage, demand for digital infrastructure is rising sharply.

Analysts project that data centre capacity will expand significantly by 2030, requiring billions of dollars in new investment to meet growing demand.

Healthcare real estate is another sector attracting attention, driven by rising income levels, increased access to private health insurance, and a shift toward outpatient and specialist care facilities.

Experts note that demand is growing for purpose-built facilities such as diagnostic centres, dialysis clinics, and medical plazas, which existing infrastructure cannot adequately support.

Meanwhile, demographic trends are positioning mid-market residential housing as a key driver of future growth. Africa’s population, estimated at 1.5 billion, is projected to reach 1.9 billion by 2035, with a large proportion of young people entering the workforce and forming new households.

Urbanisation is also accelerating demand, with millions moving into cities and increasing pressure on housing supply in major urban centres.

Analysts say these combined factors are reshaping the real estate landscape, presenting new opportunities for investors while redefining how property development aligns with economic growth and societal needs.

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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strengthened collaboration with the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat to advance the implementation of the Simplified Trade Regime (STR) aimed at supporting small-scale cross-border traders.

This followed a high-level engagement held at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja on March 23, 2026, focused on improving trade facilitation and inclusion for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Push for inclusive trade

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented by Deputy Comptroller-General Caroline Niagwan, reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to simplifying trade processes.

She said the initiative is designed to make cross-border trade more transparent, efficient and inclusive, particularly for small-scale traders.

“Our goal is to make trade easier, more transparent, and inclusive for small-scale traders, while ensuring compliance with regulations,” she stated.

Nigeria named pilot country

Leading the AfCFTA delegation, Pedro Estevao highlighted Nigeria’s selection as the pilot country for the STR in West Africa.

He noted that Nigeria’s large market size positions it strategically to drive regional trade integration and economic growth under the AfCFTA framework.

Digital systems and simplified procedures

During the meeting, the NCS presented its draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for implementing the STR.

The proposal includes simplified customs processes for informal cross-border trade, passenger baggage handling, and low-value e-commerce transactions.

It also features digital declaration platforms and risk-based control systems to improve efficiency and compliance.

AfCFTA framework alignment

AfCFTA consultant Nabil Zibani outlined the continental framework, stressing the importance of accessible and transparent systems that enable MSMEs to participate effectively in regional trade.

Discussions identified key areas of alignment between Nigeria’s draft SOP and the AfCFTA model, including simplified documentation, digital clearance systems, and the introduction of de minimis thresholds for low-value goods.

The framework also prioritises inclusive trade, with a focus on empowering women and small business operators.

Next steps for implementation

Both parties agreed on the need for continued technical engagement to address operational challenges and ensure alignment between national and continental strategies.

The initiative is expected to enhance Nigeria’s role in regional trade, strengthen economic integration, and create new opportunities for MSMEs.

Analysts say successful implementation of the STR could significantly reduce trade barriers, formalise informal trade, and boost economic participation across West Africa.

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The Group Managing Director of , , has called on African leaders, investors, and businesses to strengthen collaboration in order to accelerate trade within the continent and unlock Africa’s vast economic potential.

Ogbonna made the call while welcoming participants to the held in , , stressing the need to dismantle structural barriers that continue to limit intra-African trade.

Africa Still Underperforming in Global Trade

According to Ogbonna, Africa remains a minor player in global trade despite its large population, natural resources, and expanding markets.

He noted that many trade corridors across the continent are still fragmented, making it difficult for businesses—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises—to expand beyond national borders.

Speaking at the conference, he said the aim is to promote discussions that will translate into practical solutions for improving trade integration across Africa.

Key Barriers Hindering African Trade

Ogbonna explained that discussions from the previous edition of the conference highlighted several critical obstacles preventing smooth trade across African markets.

Some of the major challenges include:

• High cost of financing for businesses
• Fragmented cross-border payment systems
• Poor infrastructure and logistics networks
• Limited access to reliable trade information

He added that although technological advancements have started improving payment systems and logistics in some regions, the progress has been uneven across the continent.

Technology and Policy Reforms Key to Progress

The Access Bank chief also emphasised the increasing role of digital platforms in simplifying cross-border payments and improving market access for African businesses.

However, he stressed that meaningful progress will require coordinated policy reforms among African governments.

“Many of these improvements are concentrated in a few markets, and that is not sufficient if Africa is to fully unlock the potential of its internal trade,” Ogbonna said.

Call for Deeper Regional Integration

Ogbonna urged policymakers and financial institutions to work together to create an enabling environment that supports businesses seeking to trade across borders.

He noted that deeper economic integration could help African countries move beyond fragmented markets and build stronger trade ecosystems capable of driving sustainable growth.

Experts say strengthening intra-continental trade frameworks such as the could significantly boost economic development across the continent.

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The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has launched its export certification programme, SONEXCAP, to help Nigerian products meet global standards and gain wider acceptance under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speaking at the 2025 World Standards Day in Lagos, SON Director-General, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, said the scheme aims to strengthen trade capacity, promote industrial growth, and improve product competitiveness.

“SONEXCAP builds confidence in Nigerian-made goods and opens doors to regional and global markets,” Okeke said.

He called for collaboration among government, the private sector, and civil society to drive export growth and sustainable development. Okeke added that SON is working with international partners to enhance testing, certification, and consumer protection.

The DG of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, praised SON for supporting manufacturers and fostering trade-friendly policies.

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Over the last 32 years, more than $250 billion in investment has flowed into Africa. This figure highlights the growing confidence in the continent’s potential. However, Cardoso cautioned that Africa must go beyond attracting capital it must channel these funds into sustainable, inclusive development. Local expertise, innovation, and policy reforms, he said, will be the true drivers of transformation. He called for increased support for small businesses, infrastructure, and financial systems that empower citizens.

Africa’s economic resilience has been tested repeatedly by global disruptions, yet the continent continues to show strength. According to the African Development Bank, Africa’s GDP is projected to grow by 4% in 2025. Key growth sectors include digital technology, clean energy, and intra-African trade. Cardoso highlighted that regional initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) are already improving trade efficiency and reducing reliance on foreign currencies.

Cardoso also addressed the critical role of the African diaspora. In 2023 alone, over $54 billion in remittances was sent back to the continent, according to World Bank data. These funds, he said, must be viewed not just as financial aid, but as vital capital for development. With the right policies, diaspora contributions can help scale local enterprises, invest in education, and close infrastructure gaps. Cardoso urged leaders to engage the diaspora as active partners in shaping Africa’s future.

Closing his remarks, Cardoso called for bold institutional reforms, stronger governance, and financial transparency. He reiterated the CBN’s commitment to exchange rate reform, digital banking expansion, and inclusive finance. Ultimately, he argued, Africa must move from dependency to leadership. With united efforts and African-led strategies, the continent can take charge of its development and achieve lasting prosperity on its own terms.

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Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the 4th Nigeria Employers’ Summit, NECA Director-General, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, described the policy as misaligned with current market realities and cautioned that its implementation could breach existing trade agreements, notably under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“You cannot decree patriotism in an open market without first creating a competitive environment,” Oyerinde said. “Insisting on the consumption of Nigerian-made goods without addressing the underlying issues of cost, infrastructure, and regulation puts consumers at a disadvantage.”

He explained that policies promoting local consumption must be accompanied by interventions that lower the cost of domestic production. Using a simple market comparison, he noted that if a locally produced good is more expensive than its imported counterpart, consumers—especially those facing dwindling purchasing power—will choose the cheaper option, regardless of national sentiment.

“A chocolate bar produced locally at ₦5 cannot compete with an imported version priced at ₦3. Until we fix issues like power supply and regulatory inefficiencies, local products will continue to struggle,” he added.

Oyerinde emphasised that the upcoming Nigeria Employers’ Summit, scheduled for later this month, will provide a platform for in-depth dialogue on such policy issues. The summit aims to generate practical recommendations that can help align national development strategies with the realities of both producers and consumers.

He described the summit as Africa’s largest employer advocacy forum, with the capacity to influence economic policy through engagement with government, private sector leaders, and international partners.

“Our goal is to spark both macro and micro-level conversations that lead to actionable reforms. Only then can policies like Nigeria First become viable,” he concluded.

As economic conditions remain tight and Nigeria navigates its role in regional trade, stakeholders are calling for a pragmatic balance between protectionist ambitions and global trade commitments.

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The initiative, unveiled as the Digital Services Survey, is designed to map out Nigerian digital service providers and streamline their entry into other African markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

According to a statement from the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Dr. Adebayo Thomas, the goal is to ease regulatory hurdles and offer targeted support to companies looking to grow beyond Nigeria’s borders.

Thomas noted that while the trade of physical goods is often governed by clearly defined protocols, digital services don’t always fit neatly into existing trade categories — a gap the new framework seeks to close. He explained that the survey will help standardise the classification and treatment of digital services across participating AfCFTA nations.

“This initiative aims to establish a shared framework that will provide clarity and consistency for Nigerian digital businesses operating in other African markets,” he said.

Part of the broader strategy includes the creation of a Digital Services Repository — a first-of-its-kind database that will house detailed information on Nigerian digital firms, their growth strategies, and the obstacles they encounter when expanding across Africa.

The project is also geared toward bolstering Nigeria’s influence in shaping continental digital trade rules, positioning the country as a central player in defining standards and practices within Africa’s evolving tech landscape.

By identifying key markets and simplifying cross-border engagement, the ministry hopes to unlock new commercial opportunities and accelerate Nigeria’s digital footprint throughout the region.

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