By Joy Baba-Yesufu
Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have endorsed a Framework for Enhanced Economic Cooperation, signalling a renewed commitment to deepening bilateral trade, strengthening cross-border ties, and advancing regional integration.
The agreement, signed in Cotonou by senior government officials from both countries, lays the groundwork for a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) expected to be finalised in early 2026.
The Nigerian delegation was led by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, MFR. accompanied by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi; and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ambassador Nura Rimi.
Representing Benin were Senior Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, Romuald Wadagni; Minister of Justice and Legislation, Mr. Yvon Detchénou; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Olushegun Adjadi Bakari; and Minister of Industry and Trade, Mrs. Shadiya Alimatou Assouman.
The Framework, built around four thematic pillars—Trade in Goods; Trade in Services and Private Sector Engagement; Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation; and Legal and Institutional Issues—will guide the development of the forthcoming MoU. Formal drafting of the agreement is expected to begin in Q4 2025 and conclude by Q1 2026.
In a joint communiqué, both governments reaffirmed their shared vision of regional prosperity and their commitment to removing trade barriers, harmonising policies, and fostering a robust business environment across their borders.
