Luanda:Nigerian Ambassador Maxy Ogbede has announced that Nigerian businesspeople are ready to invest in Angola, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, the car industry, oil, and gas, to enhance trade and development between the two nations.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Ambassador Ogbede noted that the volume of business between Nigeria and Angola is currently low, with Nigeria primarily exporting consumer food products to Angola. He attributed the limited investment from Nigeria to language barriers, a lack of direct shipping connections, and costly air transport, which restricts the exchange of goods and services.
The Ambassador, speaking on Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1st, expressed his commitment to strengthening commercial partnerships and bilateral relations during his mission in Angola. He highlighted Nigeria's emergence as a strong nation with one of Africa's most robust economies, despite past challenges, including a civil war.
Ogbede also identified insecurity from terrorist activities as Nigeria's main challenge, causing displacement within the country. He praised the existing cooperation with Angola and advocated for increased collaboration in commerce, education, health, agriculture, culture, and tourism, emphasizing the need to implement signed memorandums of understanding and conclude pending agreements.
Both countries are members of the Gulf of Guinea Commission, sharing responsibilities in maritime protection against piracy and transnational crimes. The Ambassador commended Angola's progress in its democratic processes and infrastructural development, citing the newly inaugurated Conference Center that hosted the African Union Summit as an example of Angola's advancements.
