The U.S.-Africa Trade Commission hosted a high-impact Business Networking Lunch-Hour Workshop on February 28, 2025, at The Envoy Hotel in Abuja, drawing key government officials, trade experts, and entrepreneurs eager to expand U.S.-Africa economic ties.
With the theme “Enhancing U.S.-Africa Trade & Investment Through Strategic Partnerships,” the event served as a launchpad for new trade deals, spotlighting Nigeria’s role as a prime destination for U.S. investment and a gateway to African markets.
Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji, Director of Economy, Trade & Investment at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, delivered a compelling keynote address positioning Nigeria as a key trade hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He emphasized Nigeria’s youthful population, natural resources, and growing middle class as assets that make it a magnet for U.S. investors.
“Our markets are open, our opportunities are vast—from tech to agriculture,” Bolaji declared, while also urging reforms in infrastructure and policy to unlock the full potential of U.S.-Africa trade.
Dr. Titus Olowokere, CEO of the U.S.-Africa Trade Commission, delivered a highly practical session on breaking into the U.S. market. He highlighted the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as a game-changer, granting duty-free access to U.S. markets for eligible African products.
“Know the rules, meet the standards, and the U.S. is yours to conquer,” Olowokere told entrepreneurs, offering key insights on compliance, logistics, and digital trade opportunities.
He stressed that U.S. import demand remains unmatched, with the country importing goods worth $2.5 trillion annually. African entrepreneurs can tap into this massive demand by leveraging their unique products, such as textiles, agricultural exports, and crafts.
A major highlight of the workshop was Mr. Brandon Smith’s presentation on exporting Nigerian services—from IT and Nollywood entertainment to outsourcing and professional training—to the U.S. market.
“The U.S. is hungry for Nigeria’s talent—market it right, and you’re in,” said Smith, highlighting tech outsourcing and e-learning as fast-growing sectors with huge potential for Nigerian professionals.
The networking session buzzed with high-value conversations on tech exports, energy partnerships, and investment prospects. The event’s proximity to the U.S. Embassy added a diplomatic edge, reinforcing U.S. commitment to strengthening trade with Africa.
As participants sealed new business relationships, the message was clear: Nigeria is ready for a trade revolution, and platforms like this workshop are catalysts for real economic transformation.
The U.S.-Africa Trade Commission Business Networking Workshop wasn’t just about discussions—it was about action. With new trade strategies unveiled and investment deals in the making, stakeholders left with clear pathways to capitalize on U.S.-Africa trade opportunities.
As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria stands at the forefront of a new era of trade partnerships—and if the workshop is any indication, the future is brighter than ever.
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