The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) in partnership with NOIPolls and the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), launched the Nigeria Economic Diplomacy Discourse (NEDD). The event was held on March 13, 2024, at the CSEA Conference Room in Abuja.
The event consisted of three presentations led by Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena, Executive Director, CSEA who introduced the NEDD framework; Dr. Chike Nwangwu, Chief Executive Officer, NOIPolls, explained Perception Polls and Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, President, AUST, gave an overview of Trade policy and Economic diplomacy.
The presentations shed light on the critical role of economic diplomacy in driving global prosperity.
The panel session provided an opportunity to reflect on the recently launched trade policy and how it will impact Nigeria. Led by Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, President, Institute for Governance and Economic Transformation (IGET) and Amb. Elijah Onyeagba, Former Nigerian Ambassador to Burundi, the exchange of ideas offered valuable insights, contributing to a deeper understanding of economic dynamics and diplomatic relations in Nigeria and beyond.
The highlight of the event was the Fireside chat themed “Reflection on 2024 WTO Ministerial” featuring Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General, World Trade Organization (WTO).
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala discussed the effectiveness of international economic diplomacy in over 70 countries and noted the challenges of attracting others. She explained that the WTO had extended the period by two years, after which the window for trade policies would be closed.
Dr. Adedeji Adeniran, Director of Research, CSEA provided the closing remarks and extended well wishes to the Heads of Missions and representatives of the embassies of Brazil, India, Germany, Czech Republic, China, Sweden, Burundi, Norway, Sweden, Belgium, Switzerland, and South Africa and other high-level participants who actively engaged in the event.
The NEDD launch is expected to pave the way for collaborative solutions and meaningful engagements in fostering trade relations and sustainable growth.
