Wale Edun Predicts $37 Billion Expansion in Arab–African Trade by 2028
Wale Edun’s projection that Arab–African trade could grow by US$37 billion by 2028 reflects a broader push to deepen economic ties across regions. The Nigerian government has intensified efforts to turn diplomatic dialogue into concrete investment and trade deals — especially via initiatives such as the Arab‑Africa Trade Bridges B2B matchmaking events — targeting sectors like agribusiness, manufacturing, solid minerals, and infrastructure.
At the same time, Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms — including currency stabilisation, trade‑policy improvements, and macroeconomic stabilisation — are helping create a more attractive business environment for foreign and regional investors
The impact is already visible: non‑oil trade between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reached about US$4.3 billion in 2024, underscoring growing demand for Nigerian exports beyond oil and illustrating the kind of trade diversification that underpins the projected growth.
“These developments collectively set the stage for further transformative growth.”
Moreover, the continent‑wide trade integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) provides a strategic backdrop that could amplify cross‑regional commerce and enable African countries to collectively benefit from enhanced trade with Arab partners.
If the estimated expansion materializes, it could result in substantial foreign direct investment, job creation, increased industrial collaboration, and stronger export diversification — delivering meaningful gains for Nigeria and other African economies.
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