President announces Lagos as host of global investment forum as Nigeria, UAE seal comprehensive economic partnership
By Joy Onu
Nigeria has taken another step toward deepening its global economic engagement following the signing of a new trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates and the announcement that Lagos will host the prestigious Investopia 2026 investment forum in February.
President Bola Tinubu made the disclosure while addressing world leaders, investors and policymakers at the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), where Nigeria also finalised a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE.
The agreement, according to the President, is designed to expand cooperation between both countries across key sectors, including renewable energy, infrastructure development, aviation, agriculture, logistics and the digital economy.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by President Tinubu and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, alongside Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi.
Tinubu described the pact as a strategic milestone that would strengthen economic ties and create new opportunities for businesses and citizens of both nations. He said the partnership reflects Nigeria’s renewed commitment to positioning itself as a competitive destination for long-term investment.
He explained that Investopia, which will hold in Lagos, is expected to attract global investors, innovators, business leaders and policymakers, providing a platform to convert policy ideas into real economic commitments.
“We invite our partners to be part of this journey as we build a future anchored on shared prosperity for Nigeria, Africa and the wider world,” the President said.
On the energy transition, Tinubu revealed that Nigeria is working toward mobilising up to $30 billion annually in climate and green industrial finance to support reforms in the power sector and expand electricity access nationwide.
He emphasised that reliable power supply remains fundamental to economic growth, especially for developing countries, adding that Nigeria is pursuing industrialization without undermining climate responsibility.
The President also called for changes in the structure of global development finance, noting that excessive dependence on sovereign guarantees often places unfair burdens on developing economies. Instead, he advocated innovative financing models such as blended finance and first-loss capital mechanisms to unlock private sector investment for sustainable projects.
To boost investor confidence, Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria has introduced a National Carbon Market Activation Policy and established a National Carbon Registry, both aimed at improving transparency within the country’s climate investment framework.
He further identified the Electricity Act 2023 as a key reform tool, explaining that the law supports decentralised electricity generation and distribution, especially in underserved communities across the country.
According to him, Nigeria’s climate investment pipeline already includes a $500 million renewable energy fund backed by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, as well as a $750 million World Bank-supported programme projected to expand clean electricity access to more than 17.5 million people.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, the President said the country remains focused on balancing environmental responsibility with economic growth. He also urged foreign investors to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s lithium and critical minerals sector, stressing the government’s preference for local processing and value addition.
Tinubu noted that ongoing economic reforms are beginning to yield results, pointing to a 21 per cent increase in non-oil exports, rising capital inflows and over $50 billion in investment commitments recorded across key sectors of the economy.
“Our reforms are beginning to reflect measurable outcomes. We are committed to building a development pathway that is green, inclusive and sustainable,” the President said.
