The Federal Government of Nigeria says it would leverage the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to enhance trade and economic relations across the region.
This was made known on Friday during a meeting between the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General (DSG), Amina Mohammed, and the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja.
The visit was part of the UN’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with Nigeria on critical issues, including regional stability, economic growth, and social protection.
The meeting also addressed strategies for improving food security, strengthening social protection systems to meet the socio-economic needs of Nigerians, and identifying ways the UN can mobilize its resources and expertise to support the country’s development goals.
The Director, Information and Public Relations of the Ministry of Finance,
Mohammed Manga, said the Minister who received the DSG, Amina Mohammed, along with the Minister of State Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite expressed gratitude to the DSG for her sustained engagement with Nigeria.
He detailed progress in the administration’s social safety programmes, particularly the digitalization of its Direct Benefit Transfers initiative to enhance efficiency and transparency.
He also highlighted advancements in agriculture, noting improvements in wet and dry season farming as a result of targeted government support.
The DSG was accompanied by a high-level UN delegation, including Leonardo Simão, UN Special Representative; Sa’adatu Shuaibu, UN Political Affairs Officer; Zubaida Mahmoud, UN Representative; and Sergio Mate, UN Special Assistant.
The meeting marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s partnership with the UN, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and collaboration on key development issues.
