Technical Advisor at GIZ Nigeria

About the Organization

This position is with GIZ Nigeria, supporting the ECOWAS Commission's efforts toward African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) implementation. The role is funded by the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany.

The Project

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has become a major focus for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and its member states. They are working to leverage their achievements at the regional level to negotiate and implement the AfCFTA in the most beneficial way possible.

The ECOWAS Commission plays a central role in preparing operational instruments of the AfCFTA, including:

• Common rules of origin
• Joint digital payment systems
• Participation in negotiations on behalf of member states

The GIZ AfCFTA project supports the ECOWAS Commission in coordinating and harmonizing initiatives with the continental trade agenda, as well as implementing AfCFTA at the national level.

Key Challenges

Successful AfCFTA implementation in the ECOWAS region requires:

• A modern unified legal framework for cross-border trade
• Detailed implementation guidelines and accompanying measures
• Strong cooperation among member countries
• Active partnerships with the private sector

While regional cooperation has intensified in recent years through ECOWAS in trade facilitation and common customs legislation, the institutional and regulatory framework is currently insufficient for successful negotiation and implementation of AfCFTA protocols.

Project Objective

The support project aims to assist the ECOWAS Commission and member states in developing and instituting credible framework conditions for effective and beneficial implementation of AfCFTA protocols.

Career Growth

This position offers excellent opportunities for professional development in regional trade policy and international cooperation.