The Chairman of the NEPAD Business Group Nigeria, Bashorun JK Randle, has called on the President Bola Tinubu–led administration to reposition Nigeria’s private sector to take advantage of the $3.4tn African Continental Free Trade Area market.

Randle, in a statement, pointed out the need to stabilise the economy and drive sustainable growth through stronger private sector participation. He said unlocking opportunities for businesses remains critical to achieving the objectives of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, there is an urgent need for deliberate policies and reforms that will enable the private sector to leverage emerging economic opportunities, particularly within the AfCFTA framework.

“With President Tinubu’s efforts, there is a need to reposition the private sector to fully leverage the $3.4tn AfCFTA market,” Randle said.

He noted that a competitive and well-supported private sector is essential for boosting trade, attracting investment, creating jobs, and enhancing Nigeria’s position in intra-African commerce.

Randle reaffirmed NBGN’s commitment to working with the government and other stakeholders to advance economic development across Nigeria and the continent.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Nigeria, and Africa at large, moves decisively from ambition to action, building a prosperous continent powered by competitive enterprises, innovation, and strong institutions,” he said.

He outlined the group’s key priorities to include strengthening partnerships with government agencies and the private sector, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises to meet certification and export standards, and deepening policy advocacy on trade-enabling reforms.

Randle stressed that empowering SMEs and improving the business environment would be crucial for Nigeria to maximise the benefits of AfCFTA and achieve long-term economic stability.