Anatogu: Continental Free TradeWill Strengthen Naira
The Secretary, National Action Committee on African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Mr. Francis Anatogu, has stated that taking advantage of the agreement would boost the country’s exports drive and strengthen local currency.
He said though the country is presently not fully ready to maximize the potentials of the agreement, exports activities must be prioritised to change the equation.
Speaking at a media briefing on the National Action Committee on AfCfTA Subnational Strategy workshop, themed, “Creating Economically Viable Communities”, he said,”We must not play catch up. We must be up and doing at the beginning to take full advantage.”
Nonetheless, Anatogu said a sub national strategy was inevitable as the AfCFTA seeks to remove tariffs and non-tarrif barriers to trade adding that the situation presented an opportunity to reposition and diversify the Nigerian economy.
He stressed the need to build capacity and standardise exports.
He said though the states have the resources, it was important to work together to help them find their niche in the African export market.
Anatogu added that there was need to boost productivity and skilled power in the country as competitiveness remained critical in the implementation of the agreement.
He also said government needed to work together to provide an investment friendly climate as well as put trade facilities in place.
He however, pointed out that there was no silver bullet to the agreement, adding that the current efforts would require time to fully materialise.
On his part, Director General, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Mr. Asishana Okauru, said the states are ready to maximize the opportunity presented by AfCFTA.
He said,”Without trade we can’t move fast”, adding that buy in of all tiers of government was vital.
He said currently there had been significant support and interest by state governors towards the success of the AfCFTA.