A Critical Analysis of the CISG in the Harmonization and Unification of International Trade Law in Africa-Nigeria

Abstract

This research is geared towards giving a critical appraisal and review of the CISG with regards to the prospective effect or advantage it conveys if/when it is wholly integrated into the legal framework of the commercial sectors of African states. Africa is currently the world's trading hub, with a steady influx of foreign governments, corporations and organizations seeking to trade with the continent for economic and also political purposes, it has apparently become an essential and profitable continent. The continent is second to Asia in its largeness and population amongst the world’s seven continents. Nigeria, on the other hand, being one of the countries in Africa is relevant or considered in this discourse as it is popularly referred to as the giant of Africa. It is the most populous country in Africa and its ranked 7th most populous country in the world. But, irrespective of the above Nigerian status, the country still grapples with underdevelopment and poverty, a similar trend which cuts across other African states. The African Union (AU), which is a union that consist of the 54 countries that make up the continent Africa, serves as the political and administrative body that govern the continent. And as one of its objectives, the Union seeks to promote the sustainable advancement of all economic, social and cultural sectors of states through the integration of African economies. But following its past and present economic and commercial policies in Africa, this above objective appears “unattainable”. A similar failure is also been conceived amongst commentators and experts of the September 2000 United Nations Millennium Development Goals for Africa on economic growth and development by the year 2015. Although, one could say this development and growth is being actualized, but it is no doubt that it comes slow and is unstable.This paper proposes how the above objectives can be attainable. In putting forward the propositions of the paper, a critical analysis of the United Nations CISG rules is undertaken as it offers a proper framework for the attainment of the objectives of the continent. Through a study of the CISG tools, the paper establishes the effectiveness or limitation of the CISG in aiding the removal of the prevalent international sale of goods laws that limit and obstruct the growth of the continent.