Lagos, Nigeria | September 8, 2025 – Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has hailed the nomination of Lagos as the host city for the upcoming Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), describing it as a historic milestone that affirms the state’s growing influence as Africa’s commercial hub.
The IATF, a flagship event of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union (AU), is regarded as one of the continent’s biggest trade and investment platforms. It attracts policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and businesses across Africa, creating opportunities to boost intra-continental trade in line with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) objectives.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued by his office, expressed gratitude to the African Union and Afreximbank for entrusting Lagos with the hosting rights, noting that the event would further consolidate the city’s role as a gateway to African trade and innovation.
“This is not just about Lagos; it is about Nigeria’s leadership in driving the vision of a united and prosperous Africa,” the governor said. “Hosting the Intra-African Trade Fair will spotlight our infrastructure, investment opportunities, and the entrepreneurial spirit of our people.”
The Lagos State Government assured stakeholders of adequate preparations to ensure the successful hosting of the fair, pledging security, infrastructure support, and world-class facilities to accommodate the expected influx of delegates.
Economic experts say the event could significantly boost Lagos’ economy through trade deals, tourism, and foreign investment, while also providing a platform for Nigerian businesses to expand across African markets.
The Intra-African Trade Fair is expected to bring together thousands of participants, showcasing goods, services, and investment opportunities, with billions of dollars in trade and investment deals projected.
