- Cameroon has identified agriculture, energy and transport as key sectors for deeper economic cooperation with Nigeria.
- Both countries plan stronger business links as they address transport, customs, financial and cross-border trade barriers.
Cameroon is seeking stronger trade and investment ties with Nigeria, with agriculture, energy and transport emerging as priority sectors for cooperation. Emmanuel Tamungang,
The Director of Investment Promotion at Cameroon’s Investment Promotion Agency made the remarks in Lagos. He spoke on the sidelines of the Invest in Lagos and Expo Forum. Tamungang described Nigeria as a major trade partner and an important gateway into West Africa. He also described Cameroon as a gateway for Nigerian businesses seeking access to Central African markets.
“Nigeria serves as a bridge for Cameroon into West Africa, and Cameroon serves as a bridge for Nigeria into Central Africa,” Tamungang said. He also highlighted the countries’ more than 1,700-kilometre shared border and longstanding cultural ties.
Investment And Trade Opportunities
Cameroon’s Investment Promotion Agency operates as a one-stop shop for investors. The agency promotes Cameroon, attracts investments and supports investors with available projects and incentives. According to Tamungang, investment incentives can last between five and 15 years, depending on the investment. Meanwhile, Cameroon plans to strengthen business engagement with Nigeria through the Cameroon Investment Forum.
Tamungang said Cameroon will invite Nigeria as the guest country of honour at the forum from November 18 to 20. The event will showcase Nigerian trade and investment opportunities while creating new channels for bilateral cooperation.
Removing Cross-Border Barriers
However, Tamungang said several barriers continue to limit bilateral trade. These include weak transport links, financial constraints and limited customs cooperation. He also called for measures that would prevent duplicated taxes and charges on goods crossing the border.
Furthermore, he urged both countries to improve transport infrastructure, energy sectors and establish direct air connections. He noted that travellers often transit through other African countries when travelling between Nigeria and Cameroon.
Tamungang also advocated stronger maritime links and easier currency conversion between the naira and Central African CFA franc. He also called for the revival of the Nigeria-Cameroon Mixed Commission. Additionally, he proposed stronger chambers of commerce and private-sector platforms to facilitate business relationships. He identified differences in business practices as another challenge to deeper economic integration.
Skills And Sectoral Cooperation
Beyond trade, Cameroon wants to expand skills and knowledge exchange with Nigeria. Tamungang highlighted Nigeria’s experience in reducing dependence on imported commodities, particularly rice. He said Cameroon could also learn from Nigeria’s creative and entertainment industries. Meanwhile, Cameroon could contribute expertise in artisanal production and ICT training.
Both countries could therefore develop training programmes that reflect African realities and improve young people’s global competitiveness. Agriculture remains a major investment priority for Cameroon. Tamungang emphasised value chains covering agricultural production, transportation and trade.
He also highlighted Cameroon’s hydroelectric potential and opportunities across road, rail, maritime and air transport. According to him, investment in these sectors could strengthen both economies and improve their roles as regional gateways.
Strengthening Bilateral Institutions
Cameroon also wants stronger institutional structures to support bilateral trade. Speaking during the Cameroon Session at the Invest Nigeria Conference, Consul General Bibi Lobe praised the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry. She said collaboration with LCCI had improved since 2024. The cooperation produced the Cameroon Business Network and the first Cameroon Economic Forum.
It also supported the participation of Cameroon’s Investment Promotion Agency at the Lagos International Trade Fair. Lobe said the consulate is taking steps to establish a Nigeria-Cameroon bilateral Chamber of Commerce. She also praised NACCIMA for providing the formal framework and rules needed to support the initiative. The bilateral chamber could therefore provide a structured platform for strengthening economic cooperation between both countries.