As Nigeria’s trade landscape enters a new era of growth, The Alternative Bank (AltBank) has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across key sectors including health, education, agriculture, renewable energy, and transportation. The bank’s commitment was underscored at the ongoing Nigeria International Trade Fair (NITF) 2025, where AltBank highlighted its role as a catalyst for economic expansion and stronger trade systems in the country.
The NITF, which is taking place at a critical juncture for Nigeria’s trade development, serves as a platform to accelerate the nation’s export potential. According to recent reports, Nigeria’s merchandise trade surged to N38 trillion in 2025, with non-oil exports, particularly in agriculture and fertiliser, showing tremendous growth. This upward trajectory is paving the way for a new wave of export-led development that AltBank is determined to support.
By leveraging its specialized value-chain financing and non-interest banking models, AltBank is partnering with indigenous companies like JohnVents in the agro-allied sector, helping to channel more trade and investment into the Nigerian economy. This move aligns with the bank’s broader goal of unlocking trade flows and sustaining Nigeria’s export momentum.
Speaking at the event, Korede Demola-Adeniyi, Executive Director, South, at AltBank, emphasized the importance of platforms like the NITF for Nigeria’s growth. “The NITF has always been a clear demonstration of a fundamental truth — when Nigeria trades, Nigeria grows. When we open our doors to innovators and investors, prosperity follows,” Demola-Adeniyi said.
He further highlighted that inclusive banking is at the heart of AltBank’s strategy. “We believe finance should empower people. At AltBank, we aim to unlock new wealth across communities through accessible financial solutions. We are committed to supporting those who are advancing Nigeria’s trade potential, without hidden fees or the burden of debt.”
Government Support for MSMEs
Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, also spoke on the significance of MSMEs, stressing their central role in driving the nation’s economic development. She urged entrepreneurs to maximize the opportunities at the NITF by showcasing their products, services, and innovations.
“This trade fair complex was built to encourage trade, particularly intra-African trade. The ministry is fully committed to supporting this revitalization and restoring it to its former glory,” Oduwole affirmed.
Echoing Oduwole’s sentiment, Vera Ndanusa, Executive Director and CEO of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, shared the vision behind the fair. “Our mission is clear: to create an environment where trade flourishes, businesses can scale, and investment flows freely. We are not just managing a physical space, but custodians of Nigeria’s gateway to economic opportunity,” Ndanusa stated.
Supporting Nigeria’s Export Ambitions
As Nigeria embraces this new chapter of economic growth, AltBank continues to lead with innovative financial solutions aimed at driving trade and supporting local businesses. The bank is helping farmers and manufacturers move beyond raw commodity production, enabling them to add value and move into higher-value finished goods.
In addition, AltBank is backing Nigeria’s clean energy initiatives, offering critical financing for equipment and infrastructure that can boost productivity and enhance exports. By providing tailored trade finance solutions, AltBank is helping businesses expand into global markets, equipping Nigerian SMEs with the tools they need to scale, export, and build lasting value.
Through these initiatives, AltBank is positioning itself as a key partner in Nigeria’s ambitious journey towards becoming a global trade powerhouse.
