Tinubu Seals UAE Trade Pact, Announces Lagos Investopia Hosting

President Bola Tinubu has secured a transformative trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates, signing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) during the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). This pact eliminates tariffs on over 7,000 products and opens 108 service sectors, positioning the UAE as a gateway for Nigerian exports to Middle Eastern and global markets.​ The deal aligns with Nigeria’s regional obligations under ECOWAS and AfCFTA, featuring strict Rules of Origin to ensure authentic trade benefits.​

Nigeria will co-host the Investopia summit in Lagos next month alongside the UAE, convening investors, policymakers, and innovators to drive sustainable commitments. Attendees at the CEPA signing included UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and UAE’s Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi.​ Tinubu hailed the agreement as historic, expanding ties in renewable energy, infrastructure, aviation, agriculture, logistics, and digital trade.

Energy Reforms and Green Ambitions

Tinubu spotlighted Nigeria’s push for $30 billion in annual climate finance, criticizing sovereign guarantee demands that burden developing economies and advocating blended finance instead. Key reforms include the Electricity Act 2023 for decentralized power, a National Carbon Market Activation Policy, and a $500 million renewable energy fund by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, plus a $750 million World Bank initiative targeting 17.5 million people.​ He reaffirmed the 2060 net-zero goal while prioritizing lithium processing and universal electricity access.​

ADVERTISEMENT

Economic Gains Under Tinubu

Non-oil exports surged 21% amid reforms, with over $50 billion in secured investments across sectors. Capital inflows are rising, fueled by diversified products and fiscal measures.​ Tinubu invited global partners to Lagos for Investopia, promising shared prosperity: “We warmly invite our partners to join us and help build the next chapter of sustainable and shared prosperity for Nigeria, Africa, and the world.”​

This pact builds on prior UAE engagements, like Minister Oduwole’s trade data exchanges, enhancing customs cooperation and investor protections.​ As Nigeria hosts Investopia—its first time as Africa’s pioneer—expect deepened UAE inflows in critical minerals and green infrastructure.