By Desmond Nleya, Daily Times Business Reporter
DUBAI – The Nigeria–UAE Investors Forum has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the United Arab Emirates, declaring “we are here today and tomorrow” as it underscored the country’s position as a leading global investment destination.
The declaration was made at the second edition of the forum held on Friday, May 1, at Dubai International Financial Centre, attended by than 200 participants, including business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, academics and investors.
Also, in attendance were representatives from the Nigerian Consulate in Dubai led by Fabian Ibiang Enang, Senior Counsellor- Trade and Investment.
Organised under the theme “Connect and Collaborate,” the event focused on strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and the UAE.
Speaking at the business forum, Prince Franklin Omene, President and CEO of Omene Holdings, highlighted the growing economic relationship between Africa and the UAE. He described Nigeria as a “country of possibility” and a gateway to West Africa, urging investors to explore opportunities in renewable energy, agribusiness, fintech, digital infrastructure, logistics, healthcare and real estate.
“Opportunity alone does not create wealth-connectivity and action do,” Prince Omene said, calling for deeper cooperation to drive sustainable economic growth.
In a keynote address, Professor Samir El-Masri emphasised the central role of artificial intelligence in modern business. He warned that companies failing to integrate AI risk being left behind.
“If your business is not connected to AI, it will be very difficult to succeed,” he said, adding that data-driven decision-making is essential in today’s economy. Prof Masri also pointed to corruption as a major barrier to development, citing Singapore as an example of how strong governance can accelerate economic progress.
Meanwhile, Dr William Stenhouse, founder of UAE-African Networking, reaffirmed the UAE’s resilience as a business hub despite recent regional tensions. He described the country as a central gateway for African trade and encouraged investors to consider emerging sectors such as renewable energy and aviation.
“The UAE–Africa relationship is no longer transactional-it is strategic and long-term,” Dr Stenhouse said, noting the growing role of private sector partnerships and SMEs.
Organisers said the forum aimed to deepen bilateral economic engagement, with non-oil trade between the UAE and Nigeria reaching approximately $4.3 billion in 2023 and projected to grow further.
Event spokesperson Mayowa Adegoke said the platform was designed to foster meaningful collaboration and long-term partnerships between Nigerian, Emirati and international investors.
Despite ongoing geopolitical disturbances in parts of the Middle East, participants expressed confidence in the UAE’s stability and investment climate, pledging continued presence and solidarity.
“Africa is present in the UAE—we are here today and tomorrow,” the forum declared, reinforcing its commitment to sustained economic cooperation.
