Africa must move from trade agreements to action, Tinubu says

…..Says digital trade is the future

President Bola Tinubu says Africa must move beyond trade agreements and focus on implementing policies that drive economic growth.

In a post shared via his X account on Wednesday, Tinubu welcomed African policymakers, innovators, investors, entrepreneurs and private sector leaders to Lagos for the AfCFTA Digital Trade Forum 2026, themed “Digital Trade for a Connected African Market.”

Describing the forum as timely, the President said Africa had reached a critical stage in its economic integration journey.

“This year’s Forum, themed ‘Digital Trade for a Connected African Market,’ comes at a defining moment. Africa must now move from aspiration to execution, and from agreements on paper to prosperity in the lives of our people,” Tinubu said.

The President noted that Nigeria is serving as one of Africa’s AfCFTA Digital Trade Champions and said the country is backing that responsibility with practical reforms.

“Nigeria is proud to serve as one of Africa’s AfCFTA Digital Trade Champions. We understand the responsibility that comes with this role, and we are matching it with action,” he stated.

Tinubu highlighted the Federal Government’s National Single Window initiative, saying it would simplify trade procedures and reduce costs for businesses.

“Through the National Single Window, we are building a faster, simpler and more transparent trading system that will reduce delays, improve compliance, lower costs, and support our importers, exporters, manufacturers and MSMEs,” he said.

He also pointed to the Nigeria Customs Service’s B’Odogwu platform as part of efforts to modernise customs operations and facilitate cross-border trade.

“Through B’Odogwu, the Nigeria Customs Service is modernising customs administration, strengthening revenue assurance, improving cargo clearance, and reducing friction at our borders,” the President added.