August 2, 2025
Economy General

Nigeria, Egypt to Strengthen Economic Partnership Through Joint Investment Council – Finance Ministry

The Federal Government of Nigeria has restated its strong commitment to forging closer economic ties with the Arab Republic of Egypt, with plans underway to establish a Nigeria-Egypt Joint Investment Council aimed at deepening strategic collaboration between both nations.

This was made known by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, during the Nigeria-Egypt Business Forum held in Abuja on Monday. The minister, represented at the event by the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, said the proposed council would serve as a structured platform to identify and harness mutual investment opportunities, reduce cross-border investment risks, and harmonise public-private sector efforts to stimulate economic growth in both countries.

Mr. Edun highlighted that both Nigeria and Egypt possess dynamic populations, rich natural endowments, and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystems, which if aligned through strategic cooperation, can deliver inclusive growth, sustainable development, and resilient economic systems.

“We are not competitors, but strategic partners. Our shared aspirations require bold actions and joint frameworks to create enduring prosperity,” the minister noted.

The Nigeria-Egypt Business Forum, which convened top-level government officials, investors, and private sector leaders from both countries, is part of broader efforts by Nigeria to attract foreign direct investment and restore confidence in the economy through sustained macroeconomic reforms. The minister emphasized that ongoing fiscal, monetary, and regulatory reforms are targeted at creating a more business-friendly environment and driving productivity across key sectors.

According to Mr. Edun, the establishment of the joint council will not only enhance bilateral trade but will also help in fast-tracking critical investments into priority areas. Sectors identified for potential Egyptian investment include infrastructure, agriculture and agribusiness, energy with a focus on renewables, the digital economy, manufacturing, and industrialization.

“These sectors are central to our national development agenda and offer immense opportunities for collaboration. With Egypt’s experience and Nigeria’s market potential, we can build a partnership that delivers real economic transformation,” he added.

The proposed Nigeria-Egypt Joint Investment Council is expected to be a permanent framework that will coordinate bilateral investment initiatives, promote ease of doing business, and facilitate policy dialogue that supports both countries’ economic agendas.

This initiative is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic diplomacy drive, which places strong emphasis on regional and international partnerships as a tool for national growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

The statement was officially issued and signed by Mohammed Manga, FCAI, Director of Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Finance, Abuja, on July 22, 2025.