By Abba Hamisu
Africa-Press – Nigeria. According to available data, in 2022, Nigeria’s exports to Algeria were valued at $3.28 million, while Algeria’s exports to Nigeria amounted to $898,000.
Nigeria’s key exports to Algeria include seeds, cocoa, paste, and float glass. Conversely, Algeria’s major exports to Nigeria comprise gypsum, baked goods, and hydrogen.
In this exclusive interview with Africa Press, Kabiru Argungu, President of the Nigeria-Algeria Chamber of Commerce, underscores the importance of fostering strong economic ties between the two nations, given their strategic positions on the African continent.
He further emphasizes the urgency of reviving the historic Trans-Saharan trade routes, which have traditionally linked West Africa with North Africa.
Mr. Argungu notes that the Nigeria-Algeria Chamber of Commerce remains committed to strengthening partnerships between the Nigerian and Algerian business communities.
Excerpts from the Interview
Africa Press: What is the Chamber of Commerce doing to enhance business connections between Nigeria and Algeria?
Kabiru Argungu: Thank you for the question.
To begin with, Nigeria and Algeria are two of the most strategic economies in Africa—Nigeria being the economic powerhouse of West Africa, and Algeria representing a leading force in North Africa.
Both countries possess immense economic potential that can be harnessed through cooperation in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, oil and gas, and other mutually beneficial industries.
Africa Press: What is your perspective on the recent launch of direct flights between Nigeria and Algeria?
Kabiru Argungu: It is indeed a welcome and long-anticipated development.
The commencement of direct flights between Algiers and Abuja, scheduled for April 6, 2025, will undoubtedly enhance both diplomatic and commercial relations between the two countries.
This move will facilitate easier travel for Nigerian businesspeople to Algeria, and vice versa, providing new opportunities for trade and cooperation.
We are optimistic that this initiative will contribute to increased export volumes between the two nations.
Africa Press: Historically, the Trans-Saharan trade route connected countries in West and North Africa. Do you believe it can be modernized and revived?
Kabiru Argungu: Absolutely. Significant efforts are already underway to revive this historic route. A key initiative involves the construction of road networks linking Nigeria to the Niger Republic, and from there to Algeria.
If fully developed and utilized, this corridor will enable the overland transport of goods between Nigeria and Algeria, further expanding trade.
At the Nigeria-Algeria Chamber of Commerce, we are ready and willing to invest in and support this initiative.
We also urge all countries involved to take this project seriously, as it holds the potential to substantially boost economic activity across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Africa Press: What are your thoughts on the current implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)?
Kabiru Argungu: Frankly, it is disheartening that many African leaders are not giving the implementation of this landmark agreement the seriousness it deserves.
The AfCFTA has the capacity to make Africa self-reliant in all key sectors. With 54 member states and a population of approximately 1.5 billion people, the continent possesses the manpower and resources needed to achieve economic independence.
I take this opportunity to call on African leaders to prioritize the full and timely implementation of the agreement. All existing barriers and delays must be addressed without further hesitation.
Africa Press: What message do you have for African youth, who represent the future of the continent?
Kabiru Argungu: My primary concern is that Africa’s youthful population lacks the level of mentorship and guidance necessary from its political, social, and economic leaders.
Our youth require continuous support and encouragement to take charge of Africa’s future. However, this can only be realized through access to quality education, capacity-building, and early exposure to entrepreneurship.
Prominent African business leaders should take deliberate steps to create platforms that empower young people to innovate and compete globally.
Today, geographical barriers are no longer obstacles—information technology has leveled the playing field.
Finally, I urge Nigerian youth, in particular, to shun criminal activity and focus on productive ventures.
As Africa’s most populous nation, Nigeria is blessed with abundant natural resources and countless untapped opportunities, which can be transformed into engines of prosperity for the country and the continent at large.
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