Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Nigeria has intensified its push for foreign direct investment, using the global stage of the Milken Institute Global Conference 2025 in New York to unveil what it calls a “new era of strategic investment opportunities” across key sectors, underpinned by regional trade liberalization.
Speaking at the high-level forum, the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, urged global investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s reforms, growing startup ecosystem, and strategic location within the African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA,
The Minister said Nigeria’s positioning within AfCFTA, which aims to eliminate tariffs on 90% of goods traded within the continent, creates significant opportunities in agriculture, energy, mining, healthcare, digital economy, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
She said, “We’re not simply seeking aid or short-term capital. What Nigeria and Africa need are strategic collaborations that recognize the continent’s potential as the next frontier for sustainable growth and innovation.
“AfCFTA is not just a policy. It’s a game-changer. It unlocks regional value chains and places Nigeria at the heart of a high-growth intra-African trade network.”
Uzoka-Anite highlighted ongoing government efforts to streamline the investment climate, improve infrastructure, and provide regulatory clarity to boost investor confidence.
She also spotlighted Nigeria’s booming tech scene as a critical engine of growth:
“Our startup ecosystem is thriving, particularly in fintech, agritech, healthtech, and edtech. The government is backing this growth through targeted reforms, catalytic funding, and talent development.”
Industry observers note that Nigeria’s new approach, pivoting away from aid dependency toward strategic economic partnerships, could reposition the country as a regional investment hub.
In a statement issued by Mohammed Manga, Director of Information and Public Relations, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to building a sustainable and innovation-driven economy.
With AfCFTA taking shape and investor reforms underway, Nigeria is signaling to global capital that it is not only open for business, but ready to lead Africa’s economic transformation.
