-Economic revival in sight as ex – Nigerian president visits Cameroon June 10
-Mission coordinated by Chief Albert Agha Ngwana, President/CEO, AFTEL LLC
By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi in Buea
In what is being heralded as a historic step toward economic revitalisation and regional integration, former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo is set to arrive in Cameroon on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the head of a high-powered Nigerian business consortium. The mission: to unlock transformative investment opportunities across agriculture, infrastructure, energy, and trade centered on the deep-sea port city of Kribi.
The visit is expected to mark a turning point not only in bilateral relations between Cameroon and Nigeria but also in the strategic vision for Africa’s economic future under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Spearheading local coordination of the project is Chief Albert Agha Ngwana, a veteran international lawyer and businessman who believes the consortium’s arrival signals the dawn of a new industrial era for Cameroon.
–Kribi: From port town to regional powerhouse
Consortium’s local partner in Cameroon
The Nigerian delegation’s interest in Cameroon is not accidental. According to Chief Ngwana, the Autonomous Port of Kribi already handles approximately 80% of its trade volume with Nigeria, a statistic that positions it as a natural hub for broader regional economic activity. The recent successful launch of the port’s second phase development has further enhanced its appeal, attracting investors from China, Turkey, Germany, Canada, and the United States.
“Kribi’s untapped resources, deep-sea capacity, and geographical proximity to Nigeria makes it a strategic location,” said Chief Ngwana. “This investment is not just about Nigeria and Cameroon, it’s about creating a self-sustaining African market.”
President Obasanjo, widely regarded as one of the Continent’s foremost elder statesmen and business influencers, is particularly drawn to Kribi’s agricultural potential and its role in reducing Africa’s dependency on external imports. Known for transforming agricultural sectors and supporting import substitution initiatives, he sees Cameroon as fertile ground for impactful business.
–A visit with high stakes, high hopes
President Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria
Obasanjo’s visit is expected to include a key meeting with Cameroon’s Head of State, President Paul Biya. The two leaders, bound by years of diplomatic friendship dating back to the Bakassi conflict resolution, are expected to deliberate on the scope of the consortium’s engagement and formalise support for the various projects. “The visit is more than symbolic. It’s foundational,” Ngwana explained. “Obasanjo’s approach is clear. When he sees a good opportunity, he brings his network. That includes some of Africa’s top investors like Aliko Dangote and Tony Elumelu.”
-A multi-sector agenda for transformation
The consortium’s investment blueprint is expansive. It includes the expansion of Obasanjo’s livestock operations in Cameroon, the development of a 400-acre feed-producing plantation (maize, soybeans, etc.), wood transformation industries, maritime logistics, oil and gas storage facilities, and high-end hospitality establishments in Kribi.
But beyond industry and infrastructure, the human element of the investment stands out. “These projects are expected to create over 30,000 direct and indirect jobs,” said Chief Ngwana. “We are talking about real employment opportunities, positions tied to technology transfer, industrial training, and career development.”
A key commitment of the consortium is to ensure that at least 30% of project roles are filled by local Cameroonians. “Local content is a priority,” Ngwana emphasised. “Cameroon will not just be a host, but a full participant and beneficiary.”
-Eco-sustainable, Africa-conscious development
In an age where economic expansion often raises environmental concerns, Chief Ngwana was quick to clarify the consortium’s eco-conscious philosophy. “These are Africa-conscious, eco-sustainable projects. We are incorporating the latest green technologies and environmental protections to ensure that development does not come at the expense of the land or communities.”
The investment model is built on long-term sustainability and aligns with AfCFTA’s vision of fostering intra-African trade, industrialisation, and shared prosperity.
-A different kind of investment, driven by partnership, not exploitation
Chief Ngwana described the Obasanjo-led consortium as fundamentally different from previous foreign investment attempts in Cameroon. “This is not extractive investment. It’s participatory. It’s Africans investing in Africa, working together for mutual benefit.” He noted the political neutrality of the approach, highlighting that the consortium works closely with governments to create enabling environments, but remains focused on results and accountability. “We are driven by corporate ethics, transparency, and success. Competent legal teams, multinational oversight, and business integrity are the hallmarks of this effort.”
-Beyond Kribi: A broader vision for Cameroon
While Kribi is the immediate focus, the long-term vision includes other areas like Limbe and Sonara. These areas, rich in resources and investment potential, are expected to benefit from the ripple effect of Kribi’s development. “The goal is to lift Cameroon to the top of Africa’s economic rankings,” said Chief Ngwana. “We are not stopping at Kribi. This is just the beginning.”
In addition, international interest continues to grow. A Chinese think tank recently contacted Chief Albert Ngwana, underscoring Kribi’s importance in global trade routes linking China, West Africa, and Central Africa. “Cameroon is being recognised globally. The question now is whether we are ready to capitalise on it”, Ngwana says.
-Political support and public-private synergy
The Cameroonian government, through the Port Authority of Kribi, has shown enthusiastic support by providing land and logistical facilitation. President Biya has reportedly expressed a “non-objection” to the visit and is eager to meet Obasanjo. “This is a new season for Cameroon,” Ngwana said. “Public-private partnerships will define the next era. The government is already ahead in this conversation, and now it’s time for execution.”