The Nigeria-Egypt Business Forum 2025 is set to take place today at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, signaling renewed efforts to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation between two of Africa’s powerhouses.
Hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the forum is expected to spotlight opportunities for strategic partnerships, with the goal of advancing mutual prosperity for both nations.
A Longstanding Partnership
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1961, Nigeria and Egypt have enjoyed over six decades of collaboration across a wide spectrum of sectors. From politics and security to education and culture, the relationship between the most populous countries in West and North Africa has remained one of the continent’s most pivotal.
Both nations play vital roles in the African Union, the Developing-8 (D-8) Organization, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the United Nations, consistently working together on regional and global challenges.
Economic Relations: Room for Growth
Despite their strong diplomatic history and regional influence, economic engagement between the two countries has yet to reach its full potential. In 2023, total trade volume stood at just $211.2 million. Egyptian exports accounted for the vast majority $199 million while Nigeria’s exports to Egypt totaled only $12.2 million.
Investment and Connectivity on the Rise
Egyptian investments in Nigeria are, however, showing promising momentum. Companies such as Arab Contractors, Elsewedy Cables, Mantrac, and Orascom have committed over $1.4 billion in Nigerian ventures, spanning infrastructure, energy, and construction.
Air connectivity between the two countries has also improved, with EgyptAir operating 15 weekly flights to key Nigerian cities Lagos, Abuja, and Kano facilitating easier movement for business and tourism.
