At the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos, leaders highlighted the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to drive economic growth.
Vice President Kashim Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional integration and digital expansion, citing the country’s rising population and connectivity.
In his speech at the “Forum Friends of AfCFTA” event, Shettima highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to economic integration and digital transformation across Africa.
He explained that Nigeria’s population was expected to surpass 440 million by 2050, making it the third most populous country globally.
Furthermore, with 220 million telecom subscribers and 163 million internet users, Nigeria is already a leader in digital connectivity.
Moreover, Shettima framed AfCFTA as a significant move towards economic unity, declaring that it represents “a bold statement of our shared destiny”.
Echoing this, World Economic Forum President, Børge Brende, stressed the importance of supporting the AfCFTA Secretary General.
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He argued that, with proper backing, intra-African trade could increase by 50%, unlocking Africa’s immense economic potential.
In addition, Brende pointed out that Africa’s projected $29 trillion economy by 2050 would account for one-third of global GDP.
However, he also warned that the continent must address the critical challenge of creating enough jobs for its rapidly growing youth population.
The forum also acknowledged global workforce shortages, referencing a Korn Ferry study which predicts a shortfall of 85 million skilled workers by 2030.
With this in mind, African leaders are positioning the continent as a solution to this looming talent gap.
Finally, leaders from South Africa, Botswana, DR Congo, Somalia, Egypt, and other nations gathered at the event, reinforcing Africa’s collective ambition to shape its economic future.
