The Federal Government has urged Nigerian businesses and manufacturers to leverage the ECOWAS Trade liberalization Scheme (ETLS) to expand the country’s export portfolio.
This call was made by the Minister of External Affairs, Maitama Tuggar, during a one-day sensitization Workshop on the ETLS held in Awka, Anambra State. The workshop, themed “Exploring the Benefit of ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme in the Region,” highlighted the significant opportunities presented by the ETLS.
Represented by Ambassador Obinna Onuwu, Director of International Organisations in the ministry, Tuggar emphasized that the ETLS provides local manufacturers with access to a market of over 400 million consumers across the 15 ECOWAS member states. The ETLS initiative is designed to enhance trade cooperation and integration, fostering economic stability and creating an economic union for the benefit of the community’s citizens.
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Tuggar noted that the scheme would expand the customer base for Nigerian businesses, boost their revenues, and substantially contribute to the nation’s economic growth and prosperity.
“Currently, Nigeria boasts 946 enterprises with over 10,000 products. The primary goal is to establish a customs union among all member states, with the ultimate aim of eliminating customs duties and implementing a unified customs policy,” he stated.
The ETLS represents a prime opportunity to deepen economic integration and unlock the vast potential of intra-regional trade within ECOWAS, driving greater economic prosperity for the region.
