Economic ties between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates have reached a new level as bilateral non-oil trade climbed to $5 billion in 2025. The latest growth comes as First Abu Dhabi Bank prepares to open operations in Lagos, a move expected to strengthen financial cooperation and increase investment opportunities between the two countries.
The announcement was made during a meeting in Abuja between Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi.
According to the ambassador, the UAE’s largest bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank, is moving forward with plans to establish a presence in Lagos. The bank’s arrival is expected to support trade financing, business expansion, and investment flows between Nigeria and the Gulf region.
The envoy also revealed that Etihad Airways plans to begin flights to Abuja later this year. The new route is expected to improve travel links and create more opportunities for tourism, business travel, and commercial exchanges.
Officials described these developments as evidence of growing cooperation between the two nations, which have maintained diplomatic relations for more than five decades. Economic engagement has expanded rapidly in recent years as both countries seek new trade and investment opportunities.
Al-Shamsi said non-oil trade increased from $4.3 billion in 2024 to $5 billion in 2025. The rise highlights stronger business activity and growing confidence among investors operating in both markets.
The ambassador expressed optimism about future growth. He projected that non-oil trade could reach around $8 billion by 2027 if current trends continue and economic cooperation expands further.
One of the most significant announcements involved travel access for Nigerian citizens. Al-Shamsi said visa procedures have improved substantially and that visa rejections for Nigerian travelers have effectively ended under the current system.
He noted that more than 15,000 Nigerians visited the UAE during the past year following the easing of travel restrictions. Easier access is expected to encourage more business visits, tourism activity, and professional exchanges.
The UAE ambassador also reaffirmed his country’s support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. He said the UAE has repeatedly condemned attacks carried out by extremist groups and continues to support efforts aimed at improving security and stability.
Foreign Affairs Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu welcomed the progress made between the two countries. She described the developments as proof of a strong commitment to improving bilateral relations and addressing concerns raised by both sides.
The minister said several issues that had previously affected cooperation were resolved within the past year. She pointed to improvements in visa access as one of the most important achievements.
She also praised the increase in trade volumes, noting that non-oil trade rose by more than $700 million in a single year. According to the minister, the growth demonstrates the strong economic potential of the partnership.
Nigeria continues to seek foreign direct investment as part of its economic development strategy. Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the government remains committed to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts investors from around the world, including those based in the UAE.
She highlighted the importance of sovereign wealth funds and private sector investors from the Gulf region. These investors have shown growing interest in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, technology, agriculture, and financial services.
A major focus for future cooperation is the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement signed by both countries. Officials believe the agreement will help remove barriers to trade and create new opportunities for businesses.
The minister said the agreement could increase investment, expand commercial activity, and encourage greater movement of professionals between Nigeria and the UAE. She expressed confidence that the deal would deliver long-term economic benefits.
The meeting also carried diplomatic significance. During the discussions, Al-Shamsi delivered a congratulatory message from UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan following Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s appointment as foreign minister.
The minister said the UAE official was among the first international leaders to personally send congratulations after her appointment. She described the gesture as a sign of the close relationship shared by both nations.
Analysts view the latest announcements as part of a broader effort to strengthen links between Africa’s largest economy and one of the Middle East’s leading financial centers. Increased trade, improved travel access, new banking investments, and stronger business cooperation are creating fresh growth opportunities.
With trade expected to continue rising and major projects moving forward, both countries appear well positioned to deepen their partnership and expand economic cooperation in the years ahead.
