The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is Africa’s boldest step toward economic unity, and Nigerian students are at the heart of this transformation. With AFEL’s AfCFTA Research Grant, final-year economics students can turn their dissertations into tools for continental progress. Here’s everything you need to know:

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5 Reasons to Apply for the AfCFTA Research Grant

1. Fund Your Research: Cover costs for data collection, surveys, and fieldwork.
2. Impact Policy: Your findings could shape Nigeria’s AfCFTA strategies.
3. Boost Your Career: Stand out with AfCFTA expertise in job markets.
4. Join a Continental Network: Connect with African economists and policymakers.
5. Recognition: Showcase your work at AFEL’s annual summit.

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Who Should Apply?

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

• Research topic directly tied to AfCFTA’s goals.
• Final-year undergraduates in Economics, International Trade, or related fields.
• Enrolled in a Nigerian university.

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Top 6 AfCFTA Research Topics for 2024

1. SMEs & Market Access: Can Nigerian businesses compete in a tariff-free Africa?
2. Digital Trade: Breaking barriers for cross-border e-commerce.
3. Youth Employment: Linking Nigeria’s youth to AfCFTA value chains.
4. Trade Logistics: Solving non-tariff barriers (customs delays, infrastructure).
5. Gender Inclusion: Empowering women-led businesses in the AfCFTA era.
6. Industrialization: Can Nigeria become Africa’s manufacturing hub?

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How to Apply in 4 Simple Steps

• Present Your Idea: Shortlisted candidates pitch to AFEL’s expert panel.

• Review Guidelines: Check eligibility and deadlines on AFEL’s portal.

• Pick Your Topic: Align with AfCFTA’s priorities (see list above).

• Submit Documents: Proposal, CV, academic transcript, and recommendation letter.

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Why Nigeria Needs Your AfCFTA Research

Africa’s largest economy faces critical challenges in the AfCFTA era:

• Low Awareness: Many businesses don’t understand AfCFTA’s benefits.
• Policy Gaps: Nigeria’s industrial strategy needs data-driven insights.
• Your Role: Bridge these gaps with actionable research.

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What Winners Gain Beyond Funding

• Mentorship: Learn from AfCFTA negotiators and trade experts.
• Visibility: Present at AFEL’s Pan-African Economic Summit.
• Community: Join 500+ researchers in AFEL’s network.

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Deadline & Next Steps

Apply
Application Link: Apply for the AfCFTA Research Grant Here

Spread the Word: Share this with Nigerian universities, economics departments, and youth groups. Use #AfCFTAResearchGrant to amplify!

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Final Call: Be Nigeria’s Voice in AfCFTA’s Story

The AfCFTA isn’t just about trade—it’s about rewriting Africa’s economic rules. With the AfCFTA Research Grant, your dissertation could become Nigeria’s roadmap to continental leadership.

Apply now and turn your ideas into Africa’s future!