Ambassador Usman Sarki, former Deputy Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, has cautioned that the United States' ongoing trade disputes with China and other partners could precipitate a global recession and hinder open trade.
Speaking at the 2025 Diplomatic Dialogue Series at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Sarki highlighted that these trade wars would disproportionately affect developing nations like Nigeria, which rely heavily on imported goods and the export of raw materials. He suggested that diversifying economies would be significantly more expensive under such circumstances, particularly if investment capital becomes scarce.
Sarki described trade wars as indiscriminate tools that inflict damage on all involved and can negatively impact innocent bystanders.
Regarding the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Sarki noted that its benefits would only materialize over time and depend on how the African Union organizes trade initiatives across the continent. He emphasized the need to integrate existing economic blocs like ECOWAS and SADC into the new framework to achieve seamless trade relations.
Sarki also pointed out that the unchecked exploitation of resources, especially in Africa, has created deep divisions in countries like Nigeria, potentially leading to conflicts if not addressed. He stressed that inequalities in wealth, gender, age, and economic status are often precursors to instability and that addressing these issues is crucial for global and national stability.
Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of ABUAD, praised Sarki for identifying critical challenges to peace and security, expressing hope that Nigeria would improve by effectively addressing these issues.