In a landmark move set to strengthen economic ties, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to remove tariffs on thousands of products.
The agreement was finalized in Abu Dhabi in January 2026 during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
Under the CEPA, the UAE will eliminate tariffs on 7,315 Nigerian products, granting immediate duty-free access to 2,805 items.
The remaining products will have tariffs phased out over the next three to five years, covering both agricultural and industrial goods.
In a reciprocal arrangement, Nigeria has removed tariffs on 6,243 products imported from the UAE.
Rep. Sam Onuigbo, a member of the to Governing Board, described the deal as a “game changer” for Nigerian businesses.
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He explained that Nigerian entrepreneurs will now have the opportunity to establish offices in the UAE, work there for short periods, and expand trade relations.
The CEPA is seen as a strategic step by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to create an enabling environment for business, boost employment, and position Nigeria as a competitive player in global trade.
Onuigbo also highlighted that the agreement aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to address energy challenges and climate change while fostering industrial growth.
“This deal opens new doors for Nigerian products abroad and strengthens our economic partnership with the UAE,” Onuigbo said.
With this agreement, both nations are set to benefit from enhanced trade, increased investment opportunities, and deeper economic collaboration, signaling a new era for bilateral relations in 2026.