Private sector key to Africa’s growth, democratic stability – US Consul
U.S. Consul General Rick Swart emphasized the crucial role of a vibrant private sector for democratic stability and prosperity in Africa at the launch of the Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) Africa Hub in Lagos. He urged African governments to foster fair business environments. Swart highlighted the strong U.S.-Nigeria partnership, citing nearly $13 billion in trade in 2024 and Nigeria's booming digital economy fueled by US investment. Andrew Wilson, CIPE's Executive Director, explained the organization's mission to strengthen democracy via private enterprise and market-oriented reforms through its Africa Hub in Nigeria. This hub also marked the launch of the Association and Chamber Excellence (ACE) Certification Programme at the University of Lagos, the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa.
