29/07/2026
Last Tuesday, 23rd July 2026, I had the privilege of participating in a successful Stakeholders' engagement organized by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) Abia State Coordinatoring Office , where I delivered a presentation on:
"Empowering MSMEs for Global Market Access through Digital Transformation."
It was an honour to share practical insights on how digital technologies can help African MSMEs expand beyond their local markets, increase competitiveness, and take advantage of emerging Continental and Global Trade Opportunities.
During my presentation, I also reflected on our foresight at UB Brima. Back in 2021, when the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was beginning to take shape, we convened an E-Commerce & Digital Conference, bringing together owners of E-commerce platforms across the State. Our message was clear: the future of Trade would be Digital, and Businesses needed to strengthen their platforms, improve Digital Capabilities, and prepare for increased Intra-African Trade under AfCFTA.
Today, as Digital Trade becomes a key pillar of the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade, that vision is becoming a reality. The Opportunities are enormous for MSMEs that embrace Digital Innovation, E-Commerce, Digital Payments, and Cross-Border Digital Solutions.
My sincere appreciation goes to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) Abia State for creating this important platform to Empower Exporters and MSMEs. Together, we can build Globally competitive African Businesses and unlock the full potential of the AfCFTA.
Rouben Tamba
Nigerian Export Promotion Council