Nigeria’s drive to expand non-oil exports received a major boost on Wednesday as the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) hosted the seventh edition of the NEPC Connect webinar series, focusing on opportunities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) market.
Speaking at the session, the Permanent Secretary of FMITI, Amb. Nura Abba Rimi, said the discussion titled Paving the Way for Nigerian Exporters in the UAE Market comes at a crucial time, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to diversify revenue and strengthen export-led growth. He described the UAE as a strategic gateway to the Gulf, Middle East and parts of Asia, urging Nigerian exporters to position themselves to tap into its vast potential.
Rimi noted that although bilateral trade between Nigeria and the UAE has grown significantly over the last decade, the trade balance still favours the UAE. He said closing the gap would require Nigerian businesses to enhance product standards, improve packaging, secure proper certifications and deepen ethical practices. He assured exporters of the government’s continued commitment to supporting access to global markets and promoting Made-in-Nigeria products.
In her remarks, the NEPC Executive Director and Chief Executive described the event as one of the most impactful sessions of the series. She said the NEPC Connect platform was created to equip exporters with the knowledge, tools and guidance needed to navigate global markets and scale sustainably. She highlighted that Nigeria exported goods worth 27.6 million dollars to the UAE in 2024, compared with imports of about 1.56 billion dollars, pointing to the need for stronger market strategies and value-chain expansion.
She added that partnerships with the Dubai Airport Free Zone and Dubai Chamber International represent important steps toward opening doors for Nigerian exporters targeting the Gulf region. According to her, the UAE’s strong logistics network, high purchasing power and extensive re-export routes make it a critical market for Nigerian products.
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Key Nigerian agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, NAFDAC, SON and NITDA, also outlined regulatory requirements exporters must meet to succeed in the UAE and other international markets. Representatives from Dubai Airport Free Zone and Dubai Chamber International provided insights into market behaviour, entry procedures and business opportunities within the UAE’s commercial ecosystem.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment from FMITI, NEPC, Nigerian regulatory bodies and UAE partners to deepen trade relations and support exporters in accessing and thriving in the UAE market.
