LAGOS – With the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) set for September 4–10 in Algiers, Nigeria is rallying its SMEs and creative entrepreneurs to tap into Africa’s $3.4 trillion single market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Why Nigerian Businesses Must Act Now
Access to Buyers & Investors: Direct deals with continental partners.
Policy Influence: Shape AfCFTA implementation through high-level talks.
Non-Oil Export Growth: Key focus on fashion, tech, film, and professional services.
Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, stated:
“IATF is Nigeria’s gateway to African markets. We’re launching a national IP policy to empower innovators and ensure they reap the benefits of AfCFTA.”
Nigeria’s Strategic Push
150+ Companies: To showcase at the Nigerian Pavilion.
SME Support: NEPC’s export readiness programs for standardization and branding.
Trade Reforms: Highlighting customs modernization to ease cross-border commerce.
Nonye Ayeni, NEPC CEO, urged:
“Move from ambition to action. Africa’s demand for Nigerian goods has never been higher.”
Past Success & 2025 Potential
$43B+ in Deals: Secured at previous IATF editions.
Top 5 Participant: Nigeria’s consistent high-impact presence.
New Trade Corridors: Lagos–Dakar, Lagos–Abidjan routes opening.
Kanayo Awani, Afreximbank EVP, added:
“We want Nigerian firms signing contracts and leading Africa’s trade revolution.”
Call to Action
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SMEs: Register early for exhibition slots and matchmaking.
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Creatives: Leverage the IP policy to protect and monetize work.
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Investors: Explore partnerships in agri-processing, fintech, and logistics.
Key Dates & Resources
Deadline: August 15, 2025 (Early-bird discounts available).
Contacts: NEPC, Afreximbank, and the Trade Ministry.
Why This Matters
Africa’s consumer spending is projected to hit $2.1 trillion by 2025. Nigerian businesses that position now will dominate regional value chains for decades.
