NACCIMA hails FG’s historic win: Lagos to host Intra-African Trade Fair 2027

Stanley Ihedigbo

Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has commended the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and indeed the entire nation on the announcement by the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim Bank) granting Nigeria the hosting rights for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF)2027 in Lagos.

The landmark development is both a national honour and a continental responsibility, reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area(AfCFTA) and promoting sustainable economic growth across Africa.

The hosting of IATF 2027 in Lagos will create an unparalleled platform for Nigerian businesses, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), to showcase their products, services and innovations to African and global markets. It will also provide unique opportunities for investors, both domestic and international, to explore the vast potential of Nigeria’s economy across key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, technology, creative industries, logistics, and financial services.

NACCIMA recognizes the immense benefits that this prestigious event will bring, including strengthened visibility and competitiveness of Nigerian enterprises in the African market, expanded access to trade finance, investment capital, and cross-border partnerships for MSMEs.

Job creation and value-chain development across priority sectors of the enhanced positioning of Lagos as a gateway city for trade, investment, and innovation in Africa.

As the umbrella body of the Organized Private Sector in Nigeria, NACCIMA is committed to mobilizing its extensive network of Chambers of Commerce and strategic partners to ensure active private sector participation and to maximize the accruing benefits of IATF 2027 for Nigerian businesses.

We commend the Federal Government for its vision and decisive engagement in securing this hosting right and affirm our readiness to collaborate with the FGN, Lagos State Government, Afrexim Bank, the African Union, and other stakeholders to deliver a successful and impactful IATF 2027.

On behalf of the Nigerian private sector, NACCIMA warmly welcomes Africa and the world to Lagos in 2027, and invites MSMEs, entrepreneurs, and investors to seize this historic opportunity to connect trade and prosper together.