UAE backs long-term Nigeria investments, trade growth

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The United Arab Emirates has said that its long-term economic commitments to Nigeria remain intact, citing growing trade volumes, increased investment activity and emerging opportunities in technology and infrastructure.

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Speaking on the evolving economic relationship between both countries, UAE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Saeed Bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, said Nigeria has become an increasingly important partner within the UAE’s broader engagement across Africa.

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According to him, in an interview made available to The PUNCH, the relationship is being driven by long-term economic priorities rather than short-term global developments.

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“The UAE–Nigeria partnership is defined by resilience and a shared vision for growth. We see significant opportunities to deepen cooperation, particularly in infrastructure, logistics, energy, and other sectors that drive long-term economic development,” he said.

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Al Hajeri noted that non-oil trade between the two countries had expanded significantly over the past five years, reflecting broader diversification in economic engagement.

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He attributed the sustained growth in commercial relations to the UAE’s investment strategy and business environment.

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“This consistency is underpinned by the UAE’s globally connected economy and one of the world’s most competitive business environments, enabling us to navigate disruptions and safeguard both public and private sector investments,” he said.

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The minister added that investments in infrastructure, logistics and supply-chain resilience had helped maintain trade flows and commercial activity across West Africa. “We have long prepared for scenarios such as this. Our infrastructure has been strengthened, alternative export routes – including pipelines bypassing the Strait – are in place, and supply chains remain fully operational,” he stated.

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The UAE also signalled plans to broaden its engagement with Nigeria beyond trade, with a stronger focus on investment, innovation and economic transformation.

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According to Al Hajeri, the UAE’s partnerships across Africa span more than 50 countries and cover sectors such as sustainable energy, food security, infrastructure, education, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and healthcare.

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“The UAE’s ties with Africa go beyond geography – they are built on deep historical, human, and cultural connections. Over time, these ties have grown into a strong partnership based on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for a more prosperous future for our peoples,” he said.

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He explained that the UAE-Nigeria relationship is increasingly being supported through trade and investment initiatives aimed at strengthening commercial integration and economic cooperation.

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“The UAE–Nigeria partnership is evolving beyond trade toward long-term economic transformation, driven by innovation, technology, and strategic investment, within a framework of cooperation that fosters mutual prosperity for our peoples,” Al Hajeri said.

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The minister highlighted the UAE’s expanding Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement programme, which includes agreements across 10 African economies and is intended to improve investment flows and commercial connectivity.

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He also referenced the UAE’s $1bn “AI for Development in Africa” initiative, unveiled at the G20 Summit in South Africa, which is designed to support projects that strengthen digital ecosystems and expand economic opportunities across the continent.

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“In parallel, through our $1bn ‘AI for Development in Africa’ initiative, launched at the G20 Summit in South Africa, we are investing in the technologies that will shape the future – supporting AI projects that boost economic and social development, strengthen digital ecosystems, and unlock new pathways for sustainable growth,” he said.

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Looking ahead, Al Hajeri said Africa would remain central to the UAE’s long-term economic outlook, with infrastructure, renewable energy, logistics and digital connectivity identified as priority investment areas.

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“The UAE reaffirms its commitment to being a reliable, long-term partner to Africa, through a framework of cooperation that fosters mutual prosperity. We are not simply extending a hand in partnership – we are building bridges to a shared future for generations to come,” he said.

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