Non-oil trade between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) rose to $5 billion in 2025, reflecting growing economic cooperation between both countries.
The figure was disclosed in a statement by the Special Assistant on Communication and New Media to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Magnus Eze, on Sunday, citing the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi.
The ambassador made the disclosure during a visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in Abuja.
According to him, trade between both countries increased from $4.3 billion in 2024 to $5 billion in 2025, driven by expanding business and investment ties.
Al-Shamsi expressed optimism that the volume of trade could rise to about $8 billion by 2027 if current engagement efforts are sustained.
He also announced that First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) would soon begin operations in Lagos, a move expected to deepen financial and investment relations between both countries.
In addition, he said Etihad Airways would commence operations to Abuja later in the year, further strengthening connectivity.
On visa matters, the ambassador said challenges previously faced by Nigerian travellers had been significantly addressed, adding that visa rejections for Nigerian applicants had reduced considerably.
He noted that more than 15,000 Nigerians travelled to the UAE in the past year following the easing of visa restrictions.
Al-Shamsi also reiterated the UAE’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in its fight against terrorism, saying the country had issued at least eight statements condemning attacks in Nigeria.
During the visit, the envoy delivered a congratulatory letter from the UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to Odumegwu-Ojukwu on her appointment.
Speaking, the minister expressed satisfaction with progress made in addressing visa-related concerns between both countries.
She said many of the issues raised during her tenure as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs had been resolved within a year, particularly visa-related challenges.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also highlighted the growth in trade, noting that the increase from $4.3 billion to over $5 billion demonstrated the UAE’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
She added that both countries were working towards implementing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), recently signed to deepen economic cooperation.
According to her, the agreement would expand opportunities for businesses, professionals, and investors in both countries.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for foreign direct investment, including capital inflows from UAE sovereign wealth funds and private sector players.
