UAE capital inflows jump 88%, businesses eye more

Nigeria's capital importation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) saw a significant jump of 87.8% in 2025, rising to $728.81 million from $388.01 million in 2024, according to Nigeria's National Bureau of Statistics. This surge contributes to the overall UAE investment in Sub-Saharan Africa, which reached approximately $71.32 billion between 2021 and 2025.

The UAE views Africa as a strategic partner in its economic diversification efforts. Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, UAE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of building resilient and strategic partnerships aligned with long-term national priorities. The UAE is focusing its investments across Africa on key sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and digital innovation, aiming for sustainable development.

Through initiatives like Masdar's $10 billion program and the Etihad 7 platform, the UAE has committed over $70 billion to renewable and green energy projects on the continent. Investments in infrastructure and logistics are also expanding via DP World and AD Ports Group, supported by financing from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. These investments are expected to enhance transport networks, reduce business costs, improve electricity access, create jobs, and facilitate technology and skills transfer across African nations.

Business leaders in Nigeria suggest that sustained economic and sectoral reforms could attract a larger share of UAE investment. Leye Kupoluyi, President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted that Nigeria's improving economic conditions, including rising foreign reserves and greater stability, coupled with its large youthful population, could bolster investor confidence. He believes that Sub-Saharan Africa, in general, offers strong potential for investment growth compared to some European economies.

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The UAE believes in the importance of building partnerships that are resilient, strategic, and aligned with long-term national priorities. In this context, the UAE sees its engagement and partnership across Africa as even more essential.