The Federal Government is actively seeking collaboration among West and Central African nations to ensure the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This call for cooperation was made by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, during the closing ceremony of the 43rd Council and 18th Managing Directors’ Roundtable of the Port Management Association of West & Central Africa in Lagos.
Emphasizing the crucial role of unity in achieving a thriving AfCFTA, Ajani encouraged all participating countries to work together, asserting that the vision of a unified Africa is achievable through collective effort.
“Realizing the vision of One Africa is certainly possible, and I urge all of us to actively engage in this journey. Collective progress can only be achieved through collaborative efforts in sharing experiences and adopting best practices. If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together,” she emphasized.
Ajani further urged participants to translate discussions into actionable plans, assuring them that Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, will consistently prioritize the development of the maritime sector.
“In the interest of Nigeria’s strategic objectives and our shared economic goals as a region facing similar challenges and aspirations, the administration will consistently prioritize the development of the maritime sector,” she affirmed.
Mr. Mohammed Bello-Koko, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, also highlighted the interconnectedness of West and Central African countries, stating, “Our geographical reality of interconnectedness and interdependence makes cooperation a necessary precondition for the collective advancement of our Ports.”
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