Anambra traders may soon gain broader access to continental markets, following a pledge by Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy Governorship Candidate in the 2025 Anambra election, to harness opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking to stakeholders and business leaders in Abuja, Ekwunife said her joint ticket with Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu would prioritize policies that connect Anambra’s entrepreneurs to Africa’s $3.4 trillion market.
“Anambra is renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit and bustling markets. With AfCFTA, we have an unprecedented opportunity to link our traders to vast African markets, reduce barriers, and boost exports,” she said.
The AfCFTA, which covers 54 African countries and a population of more than 1.3 billion, is expected to increase intra-African trade from the current 18% to over 50% by 2030, according to estimates by the African Union.
Proposed Initiatives
Ekwunife outlined several initiatives aimed at positioning Anambra traders competitively under AfCFTA, including:
Establishing a trade facilitation office in Anambra to guide businesses on cross-border opportunities.
Upgrading major markets such as Onitsha Main Market and Nnewi Spare Parts Market with digital infrastructure and logistics hubs.
Setting up export finance schemes and training programs to help small and medium-sized enterprises meet international standards.
She added that agriculture, manufacturing, and electronics would be key focus areas, pledging support for yam farmers, spare parts dealers, and electronics merchants.
Reaction from Traders
The announcement has generated optimism among business communities in Onitsha, Nnewi, and Awka. Some traders say the initiative could provide long-awaited support for expanding into continental markets.
Anambra, long considered a hub for trade and commerce in southeastern Nigeria, is home to some of Africa’s largest open markets. Observers note that the state’s strategic location and vibrant small business sector make it well-positioned to benefit from AfCFTA, if the right policies are implemented.
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