By Progress Godfrey

ABUJA – Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has urged state governments to leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to expand exports, attract investment and accelerate industrial growth across Nigeria.

Oduwole made the call during a meeting with the Forum of State Commissioners of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, Industry and Investment in Abuja, where she reaffirmed commitment to closer collaboration with states to drive inclusive economic growth, in a statement by the Ministry on Tuesday.

She highlighted gains in Nigeria’s non-oil exports, which grew 11 per cent to over $6 billion, driven mainly by MSMEs, adding that exports to African markets now exceed those to any other region.

The minister described the meeting as timely, saying the ministry would continue to work closely with sub-national governments through knowledge sharing and regular engagement to ensure effective implementation of policies aimed at promoting industry, trade and investment.

She called on all states to actively participate in preparations for CANEX WKND 2026 and the 2027 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), which Nigeria will host from 5–11 November 2027.

The minister said: ‎”We want every state to be represented because every state has products, businesses and value chains that deserve continental visibility. This is Nigeria’s opportunity to showcase its strengths, attract investment and deepen intra-African trade.”

Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, said stronger collaboration between the Federal Government and states is critical to achieving the country’s industrialisation, trade and investment goals.

He said the upcoming National Council on Industry, Trade and Investment would provide a platform for policy coordination, while implementation of Nigeria’s new Industrial Policy and the Industrial Parks Programme would require active support from state governments.

He said: “Our success depends on partnership. Most of the productive assets are located within the states, making collaboration essential for improving productivity, promoting value addition, expanding trade and attracting investment.”

Owan commended the commissioners for seeking closer engagement with the ministry, describing the industry, trade and investment portfolio as a major driver of economic development.

Speaking on behalf of the forum, the Coordinating Chair and Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Hon. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, said the visit reflected the commitment of all 36 states to align with the Federal Government in promoting industrialisation, investment, enterprise development and trade competitiveness.

She also pledged the forum’s support for preparations for CANEX WKND 2026 and the 2027 Intra-African Trade Fair, as both parties reaffirmed their commitment to stronger policy coordination and partnerships to expand exports, attract investment and position Nigeria as a leading destination for business, manufacturing and trade.