Federal officials in Nigeria reported that capital importation reached $23 billion in 2025, a significant jump from the previous year’s $12 billion. Dr Jumoke Oduwole, the minister responsible for industry and trade, stated that foreign exchange reserves have now surpassed the $50 billion mark. Punch reported that Oduwole noted the country’s gross domestic product expanded by over four percent in 2025, with growth continuing at that pace through the first half of 2026. She also highlighted a sharp reduction in price pressures, which fell from 33.2 percent in 2024 to 14.63 percent by September 2026. Oduwole attributed these shifts to recent administrative changes, including the unification of the foreign exchange market and the removal of fuel subsidies.
Oduwole presented these metrics during a Lagos-based conference focused on commercial dispute resolution. She emphasized that while non-oil exports hit a record high of $6 billion, the government seeks to channel more funds into productive sectors like manufacturing rather than short-term financial instruments. The minister argued that reliable judicial processes and clear regulatory environments are essential for maintaining long-term investor trust. Lateef Fagbemi, the attorney general, supported this view by outlining reforms to the national arbitration framework, aiming to position the country as a leading hub for commercial mediation in the region.
In Ghana, President John Dramani Mahama connected rising foreign direct investment to broader economic stability. MyJoyOnline reported that inflows surged to $2.62 billion in 2025, up from $624 million in 2024. Mahama made these remarks while launching the Afienya Industrial Park, a 1,238-acre development site. He credited lower interest rates and a more stable local currency for attracting global interest. The president noted that the Tema Export Processing Zone has supported over 80 businesses and generated $24 billion in cumulative exports over three decades. He stated that the new industrial park aims to replicate this success by providing reliable infrastructure and reducing operational hurdles for prospective manufacturers.
Both nations are prioritizing institutional and physical infrastructure to sustain their economic momentum. In Nigeria, the focus remains on creating a predictable business environment through legal reforms and efficient court systems. In Ghana, the government is expanding industrial zones to boost domestic value addition and export capabilities. These parallel strategies reflect a shared commitment to leveraging recent macroeconomic improvements to secure sustained foreign capital and drive long-term industrial growth across West Africa.