US, Nigeria Set to Tackle Trade Barriers at Economic Summit
Written by Damilola Oladoke on August 25, 2026
The United States and Nigeria plan to use the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit in October to address trade barriers, customs delays, and other obstacles limiting investment, US Chargé d’Affaires Keith Heffern said Monday.
Speaking at a Freedom 250 reception hosted by the US Embassy in Abuja with the American Business Council, Heffern described the economic partnership as a long-standing, two-way relationship driven by businesses in both countries.
American firms are among Nigeria’s largest investors in energy, technology, agriculture, and finance, while Nigerian talent and markets create opportunities for US companies.
Discussions will focus on practical issues such as trade facilitation, customs modernisation, standards alignment, and access to capital. “These aren’t abstract policy questions,” Heffern said. “They determine whether a shipment clears customs on time or a new factory gets built.”
American Business Council Managing Director Margaret Olele noted that the summit will also feature a US Chamber of Commerce trade mission and a business roundtable.
