FEWACCI, represented by the President of BACCIMA, Alhaji Fatai Adegboyega Shokunbi, attended the significant flagging-off ceremony for the inaugural shipment under the AfCFTA treaty at Apapa port. This landmark event was commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Federal Government, Senator George Akume. The ceremony also featured the presence of the Executive Secretary of the National Action Committee of AfCFTA, Mr. Segun Awolowo, highlighting the importance of this milestone in regional trade.
The event was graced by a number of dignitaries, including various Ministers and the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, who was representing the Governor of Lagos State. This gathering of high-ranking government officials underscored the significance of the AfCFTA agreement and its potential to transform trade across the African continent.
The ceremony marked a historic moment as it signaled the commencement of trade activities under the AfCFTA framework, aimed at boosting intra-African trade and fostering economic integration among African nations. The collaboration of various stakeholders at this event demonstrated a unified commitment to leveraging the AfCFTA treaty to enhance economic growth, create jobs, and improve the standard of living for millions of Africans.
In his address, President Tinubu, through his representative Senator Akume, emphasized the strategic importance of the AfCFTA treaty in driving economic development and strengthening ties among African countries. He commended the efforts of all parties involved in making the inaugural shipment possible and expressed optimism about the positive impact this initiative would have on the continent's trade landscape.
Mr. Segun Awolowo also highlighted the critical role of the National Action Committee of AfCFTA in facilitating the implementation of the treaty and ensuring that Nigeria maximizes the benefits of being part of this historic agreement. The presence of such a distinguished assembly at the ceremony underscored the shared vision of a prosperous and integrated Africa.
