Nigeria is on track to become one of the world’s top 10 economies by 2050, according to Jason Miller, communications strategist and former senior advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Miller made this projection during the Afreximbank Annual Meetings in Abuja, where he outlined a strategic vision for U.S.-Africa trade and investment.
He also forecasted that by mid-century, Africa will overtake Europe to become the world’s third-largest economic bloc.
Emphasizing Africa’s growing population and economic potential, Miller warned that success would hinge on intentional, forward-thinking leadership. “This is Africa’s century,” he noted, “but it must not be squandered through passive engagement.”
Criticizing past foreign involvement in Africa, he accused some global powers of exploiting the continent without delivering meaningful development. In contrast, he framed the U.S. approach as one rooted in private sector partnerships, not debt traps or military influence.
“We’re talking about market-driven investment that is accountable on both sides,” he said.
To harness this momentum, Miller identified three core conditions African nations must meet:
- Seek sustainable investment, not disguised debt, and channel funding into infrastructure and clean energy.
- Accelerate business environment reforms, including contract enforcement, currency stability, and anti-corruption measures.
- Choose development partners wisely, steering clear of models that result in environmental harm and economic dependence.
He pointed to the U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC) as a key player in Africa’s growth, commending its commercially-driven support for projects like the Lobito Corridor and LNG operations in Mozambique.
On trade policy, Miller questioned the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which expires in September 2025. He called for a renewed and reciprocal approach, emphasizing the importance of balanced trade partnerships.
Offering practical advice to African leaders, Miller said: “Come with concrete plans, not photo-ops. Learn from the Gulf states—bring your CEOs and investors. Speak the language of capital.”
Concluding his remarks, Miller was announced as the new Senior Advisor to Gateway Partners.
In his new role, he pledged to help direct U.S. capital toward Africa’s most promising sectors. “Africa must move from potential to performance. Don’t settle for handshakes—demand partnerships that empower,” he said.
