Okonjo-Iweala, Edun Chart Path For Trade-Led Economic Growth

In a significant step towards boosting Nigeria’s economic prospects, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, are advancing a shared agenda for trade-led growth, investment, and inclusive development.

They made this agreement when the duo met at the Finance Ministry’s headquarter in Abuja on Friday, August 15, 2025.

During the meeting, Edun highlighted Nigeria’s recent macroeconomic stabilisation — from a stronger naira and easing inflation to ratings upgrades from Fitch and Moody’s — as the foundation for sustained growth. He outlined a strategy built on export diversification, private-sector investment, and human capital development aimed at achieving 7% GDP growth.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala commended these reforms, noting their potential to restore investor confidence and open new market opportunities under the AfCFTA. She urged Nigeria to accelerate job creation, expand exports, and strengthen safety nets and energy security to ensure growth translates into improved living standards.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to integrating Nigeria into global value chains and harnessing digital trade, recognising the private sector as a key driver of competitiveness, resilience, and shared prosperity.

The meeting marks a crucial step towards a brighter economic future for Nigeria.