Nigeria has urged startups across the country to apply for the AfCFTA Startup Acceleration Programme 2026, a new initiative designed to help African businesses expand beyond the continent and access international markets, especially South Korea.
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The call was made by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, during discussions at Biashara Africa 2026, a major summit bringing together policymakers, investors, financial institutions, business leaders and trade stakeholders working to accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking as the Incoming Chair of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers, Oduwole said African countries must move beyond policy discussions and begin addressing the real barriers slowing down trade and investment across the continent.
She also announced the launch of the AfCFTA Startup Acceleration Programme 2026, a flagship initiative under the AfCFTA–Korea Africa Foundation partnership. The programme will support 30 high-potential African startups looking to scale internationally and build access to global markets.
According to the minister, the initiative presents a major opportunity for Nigerian startups operating in sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, logistics, agritech, manufacturing and digital platforms.
She explained that selected startups will receive support aimed at strengthening their business models, improving international competitiveness and preparing them for cross-border expansion opportunities.
“The future of the AfCFTA will not be built by policy alone. It will be driven by enterprises, innovators, manufacturers, digital platforms, and entrepreneurs who are ready to trade,” Oduwole said during her address.
As Co-Champion of Digital Trade under the AfCFTA framework, the minister encouraged eligible Nigerian startups to apply for the programme before the deadline.
Applications are currently open through SME.Support@au-afcfta.org and will close on 24 May 2026.
Oduwole also praised the Government of Togo and President Faure Gnassingbé for recent steps taken to support African economic integration, including the removal of visa requirements for African passport holders and investors visiting the country for short stays.
According to her, the decision signals that Africa is gradually moving from trade discussions and agreements to practical action capable of improving movement, investment and business expansion across the continent.
