Nigeria Targets Increased Business Participation in ECOWAS Trade Scheme to Boost Regional Exports
November 3, 2026
The Federal Government has urged Nigerian manufacturers, farmers, processors and entrepreneurs to take greater advantage of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) to expand exports, strengthen regional trade and improve the competitiveness of locally manufactured products across West Africa.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, made the call on Monday at a sensitisation workshop on the scheme held in Lokoja, Kogi State, for stakeholders in the North-Central geopolitical zone.
Enikanolaiye disclosed that approximately 3,500 Nigerian companies and 20,000 products had been registered under the scheme, noting, however, that the figures remained below the country’s economic and industrial potential.
He identified inadequate awareness and limited understanding of the scheme’s requirements as major barriers preventing more Nigerian businesses from accessing its benefits.
The ETLS provides eligible products originating from ECOWAS member states with duty-free and quota-free access to regional markets, offering Nigerian businesses an opportunity to expand beyond the domestic market and reach consumers across West Africa.
The minister urged businesses to strengthen investment in processing and value addition, particularly in agriculture and natural resources, to develop competitive products capable of meeting regional market demands. He also emphasised the importance of understanding product registration, rules of origin and certification procedures required to qualify under the scheme.
According to him, increased participation in the ETLS would strengthen Nigeria’s non-oil export drive, promote Made-in-Nigeria products and support the Federal Government’s Nigeria First policy.
Meanwhile, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to expanding trade, attracting investment and promoting regional economic integration. Represented by his deputy, Joel Salifu, the governor highlighted Kogi’s strategic position at the confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue, its agricultural potential, solid mineral resources and road networks as important advantages for commercial and industrial development.
He also identified the proposed Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone and Agro-Processing Zone as initiatives expected to attract investments, stimulate local production and generate employment.
The Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr Folashade Ayoade, further highlighted the proposed international airport and ongoing Lokoja International Market project as infrastructure developments expected to facilitate commercial activities and improve access to wider markets.
By Rosemary Aiyenale
Source: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
