Fed Govt signs pact to host IATF in Lagos

The Federal Government has signed the hosting agreement for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027, with Lagos State set to host the continental event aimed at boosting trade, investment and economic cooperation across Africa.

The signing ceremony, organised by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, was held at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, Iganmu, Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, expressed the state’s readiness to host what he described as a historic gathering that would strengthen economic ties among African nations.

Sanwo-Olu said Lagos would deliver a world-class event, noting that the state has the infrastructure, experience and strategic position required to host a trade fair of such magnitude.

According to him, hosting the fair would mark a defining moment for Africa, as the continent continues to deepen economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He said the fair would provide a platform for African countries to showcase their strengths, attract investments and expand intra-African trade.

The governor added that Lagos, being the commercial hub of Nigeria, is well positioned to serve as the gateway for business opportunities on the continent.

Sanwo-Olu assured that the state government would work closely with the Federal Government and private sector partners to ensure a successful outing.

Chairman of the IATF 2027 Advisory Council and former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, commended the Federal Government, Lagos State Government and private sector stakeholders for their collective efforts in securing the hosting rights for Nigeria.

Obasanjo said the fair would help strengthen Africa’s unified market and create new opportunities for businesses across the continent.

He noted that the event would also promote regional cooperation and encourage African countries to trade more among themselves.

The former president described the hosting of IATF 2027 as a major milestone that would raise Nigeria’s profile in international commerce.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said Nigeria was committed to making the 2027 edition of the fair a defining moment for the AfCFTA marketplace.

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Oduwole explained that the trade fair would help build trust among African business communities and create a stronger platform for cross-border trade.

She added that the event would open new opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs and small businesses across the continent.

According to her, the Federal Government is working with relevant stakeholders to ensure adequate planning and coordination ahead of the event.

She noted that the fair is expected to attract thousands of participants from different parts of Africa and beyond.

The Intra-African Trade Fair is a biennial event designed to facilitate trade, investment and partnerships among African countries.

Nigeria is expected to leverage the hosting of the 2027 edition to deepen economic growth, create jobs and strengthen its position as a leading business destination in Africa.