Jack-Rich urges stronger US-Nigeria trade ties

The President of Belemaoil Producing Limited and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tein Jack-Rich, has called for deeper economic cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, describing stronger bilateral trade relations as a “vital call to action” for both nations.

The APC chieftain, in a statement he signed and made available to reporters in Abuja on Thursday, said the engagement focused on expanding trade ties and strengthening economic diplomacy at a time of shifting global market dynamics.

“Speaking positively about Nigeria and advancing trade opportunities between the United States and Nigeria remains a vital call to action for the benefit of both our peoples,” he said.

Jack-Rich made the appeal following high-level discussions with American political strategist Roger Stone at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, where both parties reportedly explored new investment pathways and commercial opportunities between Abuja and Washington.

He further noted that the discussions reflected a shared commitment to national development and mutual prosperity.

“There is a shared commitment rooted in love of country and a push for real, big opportunity for national good,” he added.

Jack-Rich described the engagement as “absolutely wonderful,” adding that the atmosphere was marked by “meaningful conversations and genuine friendship and respect.”

He also revealed that the visit marked his third engagement at Mar-a-Lago since 2024, signaling sustained efforts to build international economic relationships.

Trade context and economic outlook

Nigeria remains one of the United States’ key trading partners in sub-Saharan Africa, with crude oil historically dominating exports. However, trade volumes have fluctuated in recent years due to changing U.S. energy policies and Nigeria’s ongoing economic diversification agenda.

Frameworks such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) have continued to offer Nigerian products preferential access to U.S. markets, though stakeholders argue that broader cooperation is needed in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and infrastructure.

Jack-Rich has consistently advocated for expanded U.S.–Africa economic engagement, particularly in energy and development-driven investments, positioning himself as a vocal supporter of long-term bilateral economic alignment.