FG, Plateau Partner To Boost Trade And Enterprise Growth Under AfCFTA

FG, Plateau Partner to Boost Trade and Enterprise Growth Under AfCFTA The Federal Government and the Plateau State Government have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade and enterprise development by collaborating on initiatives under the African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA. The partnership is aimed at helping businesses in the state take advantage of opportunities created by the continent-wide free trade agreement.

The initiative focuses on improving the competitiveness of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises MSMEs, expanding access to regional markets, and supporting value addition across key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and solid minerals. Officials said building the capacity of local businesses would enable them to meet export standards and benefit from increased intra-African trade.

The collaboration will also promote investment, skills development and improved access to trade information, while encouraging entrepreneurs to explore new markets across Africa. Stakeholders noted that strengthening local production and enhancing the ease of doing business are essential to unlocking the full benefits of the AfCFTA. Government representatives expressed confidence that the partnership would stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities and attract more private sector investment to Plateau State. They added that aligning state-level development strategies with national trade policies would help position Nigerian businesses to compete more effectively across the African market. The AfCFTA is expected to play a significant role in deepening regional economic integration by reducing trade barriers, facilitating cross-border commerce and expanding market access for African businesses.