Of the over 40 companies that travelled, a significant number of companies concluded contracts this week with a value of over €50m. A number of key partnerships and business relationships were strengthened during the trade mission.

With a population of over 200 million, these markets provide a huge opportunity for Irish business sectors, particularly in the areas of agri-food, technology, education and financial services.

"With a population of over 200 million, these markets provide a huge opportunity for Irish business sectors, particularly in the areas of agri-food, technology, education and financial services," said Coveney.

The Minister concluded his visit in Ghana, celebrating National Farmers Day with the national vice president and the regional agriculture minister for Greater Accra. Throughout his trip, Minister Coveney met with key political figures in Ghana and Nigeria, including his counterparts in both countries, and has issued invitations to them to visit Ireland next year.

Irish brands

In Nigeria, the minister opened a new packaging and distribution centre for Ornua which will provide a gateway for developing business in West Africa. Ornua already has sales of €130m in 2014 and this facility provides a new route to very potentially lucrative markets. The Minister also launched a new product for another iconic Irish brand Guinness called Guinness ‘Africa Special’. Guinness Nigeria PLC imports Flavour Extract manufactured in St. James’ Gate Dublin, valued at around €60m per annum.

"This trade mission was a good example of multi-agency cooperation between Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and the Irish embassy in Nigeria to strengthen our trading interests in emerging markets and use our resources to maximum economic benefit," said Coveney.

Also during his visit the minister undertook a number of development related engagements including visiting the UN Humanitarian Response Dispatch Depot with the World Food Program.