The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Abu Dhabi Ports Group are set to advance discussions on strengthening Nigeria’s position as West Africa’s leading trade gateway as both parties participate in the Investopia Global Lagos event holding on February 2, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre, Lagos.

The UAE–Nigeria co-hosted forum brings together senior government officials, investors, and industry leaders to deepen bilateral ties and mobilise investments in infrastructure, logistics, energy transition, financial systems, and secure supply chains considered critical to Africa’s sustainable economic growth.

According to a statement signed by the NPA’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the event builds on the outcomes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent participation at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026) in mid-January, where Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

The agreement aims to expand cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure development, logistics, and digital trade, while positioning Nigeria as a strategic hub for regional and international commerce.

Tinubu, while speaking at the ADSW 2026, highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to a $30 billion annual investment in green energy, a 2060 net-zero target, and a newly signed economic partnership aimed at boosting trade and diversifying Nigeria’s economy.

The President announced that Nigeria will co-host an Investopia summit with the UAE in Lagos this February, aimed at attracting additional global investment.

As part of the follow-up engagements, Nigeria is co-hosting Investopia in Lagos this February to attract global investors and translate bilateral commitments into practical economic opportunities.

Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, will feature on a high-level panel titled “Infrastructure and Logistics for Africa’s Next Phase of Trade,” alongside Mohamed Almenhali, Regional CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports Group.

The session is expected to examine improvements to ports, trade corridors, and digital infrastructure required to strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in maritime trade, drawing on UAE expertise to build resilient, future-ready port systems.

Other prominent speakers at the event include the Chief Executive Officer of Investopia, Dr. Jean Fares; Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; UAE Minister of Investment and Executive Chairman of Lunate, Mohamed H. Alsuwaidi, Chief Executive Officer of FIRST E&P, Ademola Adeyemi-Bero; President and Chief Executive Officer of Africa Finance Corporation, Samaila Zubairu; and Chairman of First HoldCo, Femi Otedola.

The NPA reiterated its commitment to promoting efficient, competitive, and sustainable port operations that support national trade growth and regional integration, expressing optimism that the discussions would open new partnerships for Nigeria and the African continent.