You are working for the president and at the end of the day, you are also working for the benefit of the citizens.” - Zainab Ahmed

The AfCFTA will open a bigger market for businesses in Africa. We have an opportunity for industries to manufacture products that can be exported within regions, enabling us to earn foreign exchange. It will help us improve trade practices and remain competitive.

To be clear, African countries are seeking development partnerships, not handouts or aid. In Nigeria, we have requested longer-term financing from MDBs to weather the current storm. These banks could also facilitate partnerships between private investors and local African businesses to boost economic growth and job creation.

We have very serious revenue challenges and it is up to us to make sure we shore up the revenue base of the country.”