The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with the Enugu State Government, on Tuesday held a workshop to enlighten the South-East business community on the benefits of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS). The one-day event, themed “Increasing Intra-Regional Trade through ETLS,” took place at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, drawing participants from across the region’s business and export sectors.
The session opened with welcoming remarks by the moderator, followed by introductions of dignitaries including the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, who served as the Chief Host, and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who hosted the event.
In her keynote address, Amb. Odumegwu-Ojukwu underscored the importance of the ETLS in advancing regional economic integration and promoting entrepreneurship. She revealed that Nigeria accounts for 36.1 percent of registered companies under the scheme, with 3,146 firms and more than 6,000 certified products, including 800 new companies and 419 products added in 2024 alone.
“The ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme provides duty-free access to regional markets for certified products originating within ECOWAS,” the Minister said. “This can help reduce import dependency, create jobs, and significantly boost intra-regional trade.”
The workshop targeted SMEs, women entrepreneurs, exporters, agro-processors, and members of business groups such as the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN). Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed concern that many small businesses and informal traders remain unaware of how to access the scheme, stressing that greater awareness and participation would drive innovation and regional competitiveness.
One of the guest speakers, Mr. Zacks Yohanna of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, spoke on the role of collaboration in maximizing the benefits of ETLS. He noted that trust and cooperation are essential for business growth, adding that the scheme encourages innovation, information sharing, and access to technology across the subregion.
A lively question-and-answer session followed, featuring contributions from participants including Mary Ozowanji, Adekunle Obatimehin, Avworo Emmanuel, Zahradeen Mamman, Chudi-Anaukwu Chioma, and Kadiri Haleemat.
The workshop wrapped up with a vote of thanks from Amb. O.E. Awe, Head of the ECOWAS National Unit, who commended participants for their commitment to promoting regional trade.
The event highlighted the growing need for awareness and implementation of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, which experts say remains a vital instrument for strengthening West Africa’s economic integration and empowering local entrepreneurs.
