Tinubu Cheers Nigeria–UAE Industrial Deal as BUA Seals Abu Dhabi Partnership

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed a new wave of industrial cooperation between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates, describing it as a “strategic bridge for investment, technology transfer, and job creation.” His remarks followed the announcement that BUA Group sealed a partnership agreement with investors based in Abu Dhabi.

The Presidency said the agreement aligns with the administration’s economic diplomacy drive aimed at attracting foreign direct investment into key sectors including manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and food processing. According to a statement issued after high-level engagements with UAE business leaders, the deal is expected to unlock fresh capital flows while strengthening Nigeria’s industrial base.

Officials familiar with the development said the BUA partnership will focus on expanding production capacity, improving supply chain efficiency, and exploring export opportunities across Africa and the Gulf region. The collaboration is also projected to enhance access to modern industrial technology and financing structures.

President Tinubu noted that Nigeria remains committed to creating an investor-friendly environment, highlighting reforms targeted at stabilising the macroeconomic climate and improving ease of doing business. “This partnership reflects growing confidence in Nigeria’s long-term economic prospects,” he said, adding that bilateral relations with the UAE have entered a new phase of practical cooperation.

Industry analysts say the agreement could signal increased UAE interest in Nigeria’s non-oil economy, particularly in sectors driven by domestic demand and regional trade integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). They argue that Nigeria’s large consumer market and resource endowment present compelling opportunities for Gulf investors seeking diversification.

BUA Group executives described the partnership as a milestone that will accelerate ongoing expansion projects. “We see strong synergies in capital, innovation, and market access,” a company representative said, emphasising the potential to deepen industrial output and competitiveness.

Economic experts also believe such cross-border industrial collaborations could ease pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings by boosting exports and reducing import dependence. They, however, stress the need for consistent policy implementation and infrastructure upgrades to maximise benefits.

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The UAE has emerged as an increasingly important economic partner for Nigeria, with bilateral ties spanning trade, aviation, energy, and investment. Recent diplomatic engagements have sought to remove barriers and promote mutual growth initiatives.

As Nigeria pursues its industrialisation agenda, policymakers view partnerships like the BUA-Abu Dhabi deal as catalysts for economic diversification. Government officials say more agreements are being negotiated to attract investment into critical value chains.

Observers say the success of the latest Nigeria–UAE cooperation will depend on timely execution, regulatory clarity, and sustained macroeconomic stability. Still, many see the development as a positive indicator of Nigeria’s global investment outreach strategy.