Nigeria has officially gazetted and transmitted the ECOWAS Schedule of Tariff Offers for Trade in Goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to the AfCFTA Secretariat, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to regional trade integration.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/TheNigerialawyer-WhatsApp-Channel1.jpg")
The move comes ahead of the 16th Meeting of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers on Trade, scheduled for April 15 in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. It sets the stage for Nigeria’s full participation in AfCFTA’s preferential trade regime, which promises zero duties on 90% of tariff lines across the continent.
Signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the gazetted Tariff Schedule reflects Nigeria’s strategic direction towards fostering export-led growth, boosting competitiveness of local products, and strengthening intra-African trade.
Speaking on the development, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, emphasized the significance of the move:
“The gazetting and transmission of the ECOWAS Schedule of Tariffs to the AfCFTA Secretariat signals Nigeria’s readiness for trade under the Agreement.
This milestone enables Nigerian exporters to leverage preferential tariff access across African markets, positioning Nigeria as a key player in regional and global trade.”
Nigeria had previously flagged off its first shipment of goods under the AfCFTA framework in July 2024. With the formal gazetting now in place, the country is expected to deepen its participation in the Agreement, creating broader opportunities for businesses and exporters.
The implementation of the gazetted schedule is expected to deliver substantial benefits to Nigeria’s economy:
- Expanded Market Access: Nigerian goods will now enjoy competitive access to markets across Africa, increasing export volumes.
- SME Empowerment: Lower tariffs will allow small and medium enterprises to scale their operations regionally.
- Job Creation & Investment: Greater export potential is expected to spur job creation and attract both intra-African and global investors.
- Stronger Regional Integration: Nigeria’s leadership within ECOWAS and AfCFTA will be reinforced, enhancing its voice in shaping Africa’s economic future.
Nigeria’s approach to tariff reduction under AfCFTA follows a phased model over a 10-year period starting in 2021:
- By 2025: A 50% reduction in tariffs on goods traded with least developed African countries, at a rate of 10% annually.
- With developing countries: Full tariff elimination (0%) applies immediately, with a 20% reduction per year.
This strategy aligns with the African Union’s directive from the 35th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, allowing other AfCFTA State Parties to begin trading with Nigeria under the Agreement.
Revolutionizing Legal Research: "Civil Litigation Serial" and "Encyclopedia of Nigerian Case Law" Now Available
"Civil Litigation Serial" and "Encyclopedia of Nigerian Case Law Principles and Authorities" are must-have resources for legal practitioners, offering comprehensive insights into civil litigation and case law principles. The first volumes are now available for purchase through independent booksellers across Nigeria. Call 07051822705 to get your copies today! ______________________________________________________________________ From Constitutionalism To Federalism And "Speaking Truth To Power": Get Your Copies Of Prof. Ozekhome's Books Tackling Nigeria's Critical Issues 
For Enquiries: 📞 +234 704 044 9375 | +234 814 813 4773 | +234 816 872 3532 ✉️ educodexl@gmail.com
______________________________________________________________________Grab Your Complete Law Reports Now!!! IP, Company, Evidence & Land Cases - All Volumes With Digital Index!!!
To get a copy kindly Call 07044444777, 07044444999, 08181999888, https://alexandernigeria.com/ ______________________________________________________________________
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
