Oyo becomes first sub-national in Africa to launch AfCFTA implementation strategy
Oyo State has made history by becoming the first sub-national government in Africa to formally launch an implementation strategy for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The landmark event, held at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan on Friday, was attended by the AfCFTA Secretary-General, Wamkele Mene, and Oyo State’s Acting Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, who represented Governor ‘Seyi Makinde.
In his remarks, Mene praised the initiative as a bold and visionary step that positions Oyo as a model for other states across the continent. He stressed that the strategy would unlock economic opportunities, boost trade, create jobs for young people and entrepreneurs, and enhance competitiveness.
“Oyo State has become a beacon of resilience and prosperity through AfCFTA. This strategy will tackle unemployment, drive economic growth, and reduce poverty,” Mene said, adding that the AfCFTA Secretariat would support the state to ensure its plans become a reality.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Makinde, Acting Governor Lawal said the launch was a “statement of intent” to show Oyo’s readiness to leverage continental trade opportunities. He explained that the strategy would support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through training, packaging and certification support, while also signalling to investors that the state is open for business.
Lawal emphasised that the initiative would prioritise sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and the creative industry, ensuring resources are channelled into areas with the highest economic returns.
He noted: “No sub-national in Nigeria or Africa has formally adopted a domestic strategy to operationalise AfCFTA. Today, Oyo State becomes the first of Africa’s 591 sub-nationals to do so. This is not politics, but preparedness. The earlier we prepare, the earlier we benefit.”
The acting governor further highlighted the legality of the move, explaining that while foreign trade policy remains the preserve of the Federal Government, states have powers in economic development, investment promotion, infrastructure, and SMEs.
The strategy, he said, would deliver immediate, medium, and long-term benefits, including job creation, export readiness, and attraction of foreign direct investments.
With its proximity to the Benin Republic, Lawal added that Oyo is well-positioned to boost cross-border trade and expand logistics opportunities, further strengthening its economy.
