The United Arab Emirates has stepped up efforts to strengthen logistics coordination and trade corridors with Nigeria, as both countries seek to shield supply chains from ongoing global disruptions and deepen economic ties.

The initiative was outlined by Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE minister of foreign trade, during a high-level meeting in Dubai, convened by the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation.

The gathering brought together shipping executives and maritime stakeholders to address bottlenecks affecting regional cargo flows and to identify practical solutions to maintain trade continuity.

Al Zeyoudi said the UAE was prioritising "continuity of trade flows" through closer coordination with industry players and the deployment of more adaptive logistics policies.

The strategy includes developing alternative trade corridors and enhancing customs frameworks to improve efficiency and responsiveness across supply chains.

The renewed focus on logistics is particularly relevant for Nigeria, where trade performance remains closely tied to global supply chain stability.

According to Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria's minister for trade and investment, the country recorded a trade surplus of ₦113 trillion in 2025, equivalent to roughly $70 billion at current exchange rates. The figure highlights Nigeria's growing export capacity, driven largely by hydrocarbons, while also underscoring its reliance on efficient import channels for industrial and consumer goods.

As one of Africa's largest economies and a key maritime hub in West Africa, Nigeria depends on reliable shipping networks to sustain sectors such as energy, manufacturing and agriculture. Disruptions in cargo movement, whether due to geopolitical tensions or infrastructure constraints, can have wide-ranging economic effects.

Senior UAE officials at the meeting emphasised progress in addressing some of these challenges. Abdulla bin Damithan said coordination efforts had improved trade flows into the UAE, while new initiatives were being assessed to sustain momentum.

Meanwhile, Abdulla Busenad pointed to recently introduced customs measures aimed at easing cargo movement. These include streamlined transit procedures along a "green corridor" with Oman and the acceptance of alternative guarantees for shipments, alongside expanded engagement with traders.

Busenad added that authorities are piloting an Advance Cargo Information system for pre-arrival processing and launching a new maritime feeder service linking the region with India, moves designed to reduce delays and improve connectivity.

The measures reflect a broader effort by the UAE to consolidate its position as a global logistics hub while strengthening commercial links with African markets. For Nigeria, closer integration with Gulf-based trade infrastructure could help stabilise supply chains and support long-term growth, particularly as global trade patterns continue to evolve.