President Tinubu hailed a new agreement between Nigeria’s BUA Group and UAE-based AD Ports Group. The deal focuses on sugar refining and agro-industrial development to boost exports.
The three-party memorandum of understanding signed in Abu Dhabi also involves the UAE’s MAIR Group and is focused on cooperation in sugar refining, agro-industrial development and integrated global logistics solutions. Officials say the initiative could deepen trade ties between West Africa and the Gulf region.
Tinubu described the pact as a “breakthrough” for industrial trade arising from renewed Nigeria–UAE engagement. He said it shows growing confidence in Nigeria’s economic reform agenda and reinforces the government’s push toward export-led industrialisation.
Under the agreement, partners will explore developing sugar refining capabilities and advanced logistics infrastructure. The aim is to strengthen value addition and supply chain links that support expanded exports of processed goods.
The president praised BUA Group’s chairman, Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, for his investments in Nigeria’s industrial and port infrastructure. Tinubu said the company’s existing industrial base provides a foundation for deeper global trade integration.
He also highlighted the importance of diplomatic and trade ties with the UAE, noting that recent high-level engagements prioritised trade, investment, infrastructure and food security.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening bilateral partnerships that attract investment, expand exports and help Nigerian businesses compete on the global stage.
The deal comes as Nigeria seeks to diversify trade beyond oil and strengthen industrial bases that can produce exportable goods.