Ethiopia’s fast-evolving economic landscape is drawing increasing interest from Nigerian investors, as the East African powerhouse opens its doors wider to private sector participation. 

According to Nigeria’s Deputy Head of Mission to Ethiopia, Maxy Ogbede, the business bond between the two African giants is poised for a significant leap.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ogbede emphasized that Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms have made it an attractive destination for Nigerian entrepreneurs. “we are looking to have Nigerians coming to Ethiopia to do their business."  he stated.

Highlighting the openness of Nigeria’s own economy, Ogbede said both countries are aligned in their push for private sector growth.

The diplomat also underscored the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the two nations, which dates back to 1960. “We have had great bilateral ties with Ethiopia since 1960, and it has been going on.” he added.

Beyond business, Nigeria and Ethiopia are working to streamline migration and visa policies to facilitate even greater cooperation. As Africa’s two most populous countries  with Nigeria at over 230 million and Ethiopia at over 120 million the opportunities for deepened collaboration are vast.

“We have strong cultural heritages, we share the same multi-ethnic diversity like Ethiopia. So we have a lot in common with Ethiopia; and there is a future prospect that the two countries can become great together.” Ogbede remarked.

He concluded with a call for stronger people-to-people connections and collaborative efforts to bolster the already robust Ethiopia-Nigeria relationship.