Stakeholders have called for stronger bilateral cooperation between the U.S. and African governments to address challenges such as regulatory barriers, infrastructure deficits, and currency fluctuations.

Akinremi Bolaji, director of economy, trade and investment at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in his keynote address at the U.S.-Africa Trade Commission Business Networking Lunch-Hour Workshop, stressed the need for African economies to diversify beyond traditional exports like oil, agriculture and minerals.

Bolaji positioned Nigeria as a linchpin for U.S. engagement with Africa, bolstered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“Our markets are open, our opportunities vast—from tech to agriculture,” he declared, inviting American firms to invest while acknowledging hurdles like infrastructure and policy alignment.

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He highlighted Africa’s youthful population, abundant natural resources, and rapidly expanding middle class as major attractions for U.S. investors.

He underscored recent policy reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business in African countries, making them more attractive destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI).

Bolaji expressed optimism about the future of the U.S.-Africa trade relations, urging participants to leverage the opportunities presented by platforms like this workshop to forge meaningful partnerships.

The event themed ‘Enhancing U.S.-Africa Trade & Investment Through Strategic Partnerships’ brought together entrepreneurs, trade experts, and government officials.

With Nigeria as a focal point, the workshop showcased the immense potential for deepening economic ties between the U.S. and Africa, serving as a platform for insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities.

Taiwo Adekanye, managing partner of JD Global Light Consult Limited underscored the private sector’s pivotal role in connecting U.S. and African businesses.

“This is about more than trade, it’s about building a future of shared prosperity,” Adekanye said.

Titus Olowokere, executive director and CEO of the U.S.-Africa Trade Commission in his presentation titled; ‘Trading with the USA: Opportunities, Regulations, and Compliance Imperatives (Tips for Entrepreneurs from Developing Countries)” demystified the U.S. market for Nigerian entrepreneurs, spotlighting the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as a gateway for duty-free exports.

“Know the rules, meet the standards, and the U.S. is yours to conquer,” Olowokere advised, offering actionable tips on compliance, certifications, and logistics,” Olowokere said.

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He urged entrepreneurs to view trading with the U.S. not just as a transactional activity but as a pathway to long-term partnerships that drive mutual prosperity.

Also, Brandon Smith, vice president – international trade of the U.S.-Africa Trade Commission, enriched the agenda with a presentation on the benefits and opportunities of exporting services from Nigeria to the United States.

Smith showcased Nigeria’s strength in IT, entertainment, and professional services, citing Nollywood’s global reach and the rise of tech hubs.

“The U.S. is hungry for Nigeria’s talent. Market it right, and you’re in,” he said, encouraging firms to tap into outsourcing trends and build U.S.-facing brands.

To cover the challenge of regulatory barriers and certification requirements in the U.S., he encouraged participants to partner with U.S.-based firms or organisations to navigate compliance issues.

He emphasised the immense potential of Nigeria’s human capital and urged stakeholders to prioritise service exports as a viable avenue for economic growth.