The African Continental Free Trade Area and Nigeria’s Agricultural Export Potential: A North Central Assessment

This study examines the implications of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for Nigeria's agricultural export sector, with particular reference to the production and trading capacities of the North Central geopolitical zone. States such as Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa are among Nigeria's most productive agricultural regions, generating significant outputs of yam, cassava, sorghum, and fresh vegetables. The AfCFTA, which entered into full operational mode in 2021, is projected to significantly expand intra-African trade, creating new market opportunities for Nigerian agricultural exporters. Drawing on comparative advantage theory and new trade theory, this research assesses the readiness of North Central farmers and agribusinesses to leverage AfCFTA market access, examining supply chain constraints, export certification challenges, and policy gaps. The study employs a qualitative research design, drawing on interviews with farmers, traders, and officials of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), alongside analysis of AfCFTA documentation and state-level agricultural reports. It is anticipated that findings will reveal significant untapped export potential in the zone, constrained by post-harvest losses, inadequate logistics infrastructure, and limited trade facilitation capacity. Policy recommendations are targeted at state governments, federal agricultural ministries, and the NEPC. Keywords: AfCFTA, agricultural exports, North Central Nigeria, trade policy, comparative advantage.