The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), in collaboration with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), has positioned Nigerian Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) at the heart of continental trade integration through their active participation in the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) held in Algiers, Algeria.
More than a showcase, the initiative served as a gateway for Nigerian businesses to access new markets, build cross-border partnerships, and enhance competitiveness across Africa’s emerging value chains. It also reinforced Nigeria’s role in advancing the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by creating new opportunities for diversification, job creation, and regional collaboration.
According to LCCI, the partnership reflects a shared vision of fostering sustainable growth across the continent.
“This collaboration underscores our joint commitment to driving intra-African trade, innovation, and economic development by ensuring SMEs are well represented in Africa’s premier trade marketplace,” the Chamber stated.
Highlighting Afreximbank’s role, Yusuf Daya, Director of AU/AfCFTA and International Relations, described the initiative as part of the Bank’s long-term strategy to empower indigenous enterprises and catalyze private-sector-led growth.
“The Intra-African Trade Fair is a catalyst for economic transformation. By supporting the participation of 20 Nigerian SMEs, Afreximbank is helping strengthen regional value chains and advancing AfCFTA’s mission of deeper trade integration,” he said.
The 2025 edition of IATF attracted over 112,000 visitors from 132 countries and facilitated $48.3 billion in trade and investment deals during its seven-day run, featuring 2,148 exhibitors from across Africa and beyond.
Looking ahead, Nigeria will play an even more prominent role as LCCI leads preparations for IATF2027, scheduled to take place in Lagos. The Chamber has pledged to mobilize the Nigerian business community for broader participation and deeper engagement in what promises to be a landmark continental event.
