He stressed the need for improvements in logistics, transport links, and payment systems to unlock the potential of Africa’s vast market
Minister Edun Urges Boost in Intra-African Trade for Continent’s Prosperity
The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, has emphasized the importance of intra-African trade as a foundation for the continent’s long-term growth and integration.
This call to action was made in Lagos at the launch of Africa 2063: Creating the Future We Want, a book honouring the late Osaze Osifo, a respected investment executive and advocate for African development who passed away in 2012
Speaking at the occasion, HM Edun highlighted that intra-African trade currently accounts for just 10% of the continent’s total trade.
He stressed the need for improvements in logistics, transport links, and payment systems to unlock the potential of Africa’s vast market.
Improving logistics, transport links, and payment systems is essential to unlocking the promise of our 1.3 billion-person market, he stated.
The Minister described Osifo as a visionary with a rare intellect and unwavering commitment to practical development.
He noted that Osifo’s legacy continues through ideas focused on inclusive growth and private sector-driven transformation.
He reaffirmed that the government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for investment, as evidenced by a recent infrastructure deal that successfully passed an international value-for-money audit. This milestone demonstrates growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s reform path.
As Africa looks to the future, the Minister’s advocacy for deeper
intra-African trade serves as a timely reminder of the continent’s vast potential. By working together to address the challenges and opportunities in intra-African trade, Africa can unlock new avenues for growth and development.
Credit: Mohammed Manga FCAI, Director, Information and Public Relations, May 10, 2025.
**Minister Edun Champions Intra-African Trade as Key to Continental Growth**
LAGOS, Nigeria, May 10, 2025 — Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has underscored the critical role of intra-African trade in driving Africa’s long-term growth and integration. Speaking at the launch of *Africa 2063: Creating the Future We Want* in Lagos, a book honoring the late Osaze Osifo, a prominent investment executive and advocate for African development who died in 2012, Edun called for stronger trade ties across the continent.
Edun noted that intra-African trade currently constitutes only 10% of the continent’s total trade. He urged improvements in logistics, transport networks, and payment systems to unlock the potential of Africa’s 1.3 billion-person market. “Enhancing these systems is vital to realizing the promise of our vast market,” he said.
Describing Osifo as a visionary with a profound commitment to practical development, Edun highlighted his legacy of promoting inclusive growth and private sector-led transformation. He also reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s dedication to fostering an investment-friendly environment, citing a recent infrastructure deal that passed an international value-for-money audit as evidence of growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s reforms.
Edun’s advocacy for deeper intra-African trade highlights the continent’s immense potential. By addressing trade challenges collaboratively, Africa can pave new pathways for sustainable growth and development. Read More
Credit: Mohammed Manga FCAI, Director, Information and Public Relations.
