By Uche Onyeali
African governments have been advised to consolidate on intra Africa trade and investment opportunities to complement efforts towards realisation of peace and sustainable development in the country and the West African sub-region.
The Regional 1st Vice President of the West African Action Network on Small Arms, WAANSA, Comrade Martin Igwe, who was represented by his office Organising Secretary, Miss Ebere Ibeawuchi, gave this advice at the 2025 Tunisia Africa Business Council Conference, which commenced yesterday in Tunis, Tunisia.
In his presentation at the conference with the theme: “Financing Investments & Trade In Africa, Igwe appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consolidate on the advancement of intra-trade relationships in Africa as part of non-kinetic strategy to end gun violence in Nigeria and West Africa.
According tothe WAANSA’s Regional 1st Vice President, trade creates wealth and welfare for societies and engages youths meaningfully.
He noted that when youths are positively busy, conflict and gun violence will gradually disappear.
He appealed to other African countries to emulate the Tunisian government, especially at this time that the world is now a global village, noting that positive impact in one country could affect many others.
“Trade is crucial to Africa’s development, as it offers opportunities for jobs over dependent on external market.
“Regional integration can drive people out of poverty, hence youths are relevant agents that should embrace opportunities,” he said.
Igwe disclosed that WAANSA mobilised relevant stakeholders to key into the Tunisia Council for African Business Investment and Finance opportunities, as doing so would create more job opportunities for youths.
“When youths are engaged positively then gun-related crimes are also eliminated and there will be sustainable peace in Nigeria.
“Nigeria stands to gain from investment opportunities with legitimate trade deals capable of advancing international trade, which youths who are the engine room of economic development need most,” Igwe added.
The event featuring bid time business and financial presentations, interactions with government officials, among other engagements meant to advance trade and development in Africa.
