WORLD TRADE ORGANISATION (WTO) TRADE POLICY REVIEW MECHANISMS (TPRMs): EFFECTS ON NIGERIA’s TRADE POLICY AND IMPLICATIONS FOR THE ECONOMY

Abstract

This article presents a legal analysis of Nigeria's engagement with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Trade Policy Review Mechanisms (TPRMs), assessing its effects on Nigeria's trade policies and its implications for the economy. Using the doctrinal research methodology, the findings reveal that while the TPRMs significantly enhances Nigeria's trade policy transparency and accountability, boosting its global image and credibility, its full benefits are hampered by persistent challenges. These include institutional weakness, inconsistent policy implementation, bureaucratic bottlenecks, regulatory overlaps and fragmented legal framework. Broader socio-economic issues like infrastructural challenges and heavy reliance on crude oil exports further impedes effective policy reforms. The article argues that the non-binding nature of TPRMs recommendations and technical complexities of the WTO dispute settlement system deter Nigeria from seeking redress. It also argues that despite these hurdles, the TPRMs offers valuable opportunities for policy making, capacity building and institutional strengthening, encouraging alignment with multilateral and regional obligations like the WTO and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The article concludes with actionable recommendations aims at enhancing institutional capacity for effective trade policy management, enhanced transparency, and stakeholder engagement to foster resourceful and equitable participation in the global trading system.