ODUWOLE, FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTRY SEEK STRONGER TRADE AND INVESTMENT TIES

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, has met with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, to explore ways of strengthening Nigeria’s trade and investment opportunities.

Oduwole disclosed the meeting on Tuesday, saying discussions centred on improving collaboration between both ministries on trade, investment and bilateral priorities. The engagement is part of efforts to advance Nigeria’s economic interests and strengthen the country’s position in the global trading system.

According to the minister, one of the key areas discussed was the need to expand market access for Nigerian businesses. Greater access to international markets would provide Nigerian enterprises with opportunities to increase exports, attract new customers and compete more effectively beyond the domestic market.

The two officials also examined ways of facilitating foreign capital inflows into Nigeria. Oduwole said closer collaboration between the trade and foreign affairs ministries could help streamline processes and create a more favourable environment for international investors.

The meeting also focused on Nigeria’s bilateral priorities and how diplomatic engagements can be better aligned with the country’s economic objectives.

Oduwole said the government was working to position Nigeria as a more competitive partner in global trade by strengthening economic diplomacy and creating stronger connections between Nigerian businesses and international markets.

She also stressed the importance of closer cooperation between government institutions in promoting the country's commercial interests abroad.

The engagement comes as the Federal Government continues to pursue policies aimed at attracting investment, expanding exports and improving Nigeria’s participation in international trade.

By bringing trade and foreign policy officials together, the government hopes to ensure that diplomatic relationships increasingly translate into concrete economic opportunities for Nigerian businesses and investors.

The latest discussions are expected to contribute to efforts to increase market access, attract foreign investment and strengthen Nigeria’s role as a competitive participant in the global economy.