The Oyo State Government has engaged in discussions with leaders from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat based in Ghana to strategize and design collaborative initiatives for the state’s implementation of the AfCFTA Strategy, beginning in 2026. These discussions were prompted by a recently held 'Training the Trainers' workshop in Ibadan, designed to equip participants with knowledge on how to leverage AfCFTA for economic growth.

During the meeting, state officials reviewed the 2026 Action Plan and outlined plans for allocating funds towards AfCFTA initiatives as part of the upcoming 2026 budget. The discussions were characterized by enthusiasm for the anticipated collaboration between the Oyo State Government and the AfCFTA Secretariat, marking a significant step towards tapping into the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area for local economic development.

The outcomes of this engagement are expected to set a foundational step for Oyo State in maximizing its competitiveness within the regional market, given the potential offered by the AfCFTA to increase trade and economic relations among African nations. As the implementation phase approaches, state officials are focused on ensuring that suitable frameworks and practices are in place to support the rollout of the AfCFTA Strategy effectively.