Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have advanced the implementation of a landmark economic and cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening trade, customs processes, and regional integration — with significant benefits expected for SMEs in both countries.
Led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, high‑level delegations from both nations met in Cotonou to finalise frameworks covering trade facilitation, customs procedures, private sector engagement, market access for trading services, and improvements in storage and transport infrastructure.
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The deal follows commitments made at the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) hosted by Nigeria in June 2025.Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said the pact will ease cross‑border trade, open new markets, and expand opportunities for small businesses.
Customs chiefs from both sides pledged to resolve long‑standing bottlenecks and streamline border protocols, supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agenda and accelerating regional SME growth.
