Two hundred small-scale cross-border traders in Nigeria successfully completed a six-week training program on Monday, part of the Trade Facilitation West Africa (TFWA) initiative. This program, in collaboration with the National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS) and supported by development partners such as USAID, the European Union, and the governments of the Netherlands and Germany, aims to enhance trade facilitation in West Africa.
The training, which took place from September 10 to October 3, was managed by the World Bank Group and GIZ, with oversight from ECOWAS and the UEMOA Commission. Dr. Ken Ukaoha, President of NANTS, stated that participants, representing eight trade associations from the South-West zone, engaged in 13 thematic modules designed to improve their trade proficiency.
Women constituted approximately 66% of the participants, reflecting a focus on empowering female traders. The program included training from experts Kolawale Awe and Barrister Tajudeen Olanrewaju, aimed at equipping traders with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of cross-border trade and resist corruption at borders.
Dr. Ukaoha emphasized the importance of effective trade facilitation for Nigeria's economic stability and poverty reduction, highlighting small-scale cross-border trade as a potential source of sustainable revenue. He urged the federal government to ensure that border officials adhere to regulations that support, rather than hinder, trade activities.
Alicia Stephens, a TFWA representative, praised the participants for their commitment and encouraged them to implement their new knowledge. The initiative included participants from 15 African countries, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of regional trade corridors.
Kelvin Oye, President of NACCIMA, and Kolawole Sofola, Director of Trade, also recognized the significance of the training in fostering understanding of trade regulations and promoting collaboration among traders. Participant Victor Nnotum expressed gratitude for the training, noting its positive impact on his confidence and knowledge in cross-border trade.
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