The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat, has nominated Lagos as the host city for the 2027 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF).
Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos state governor, in a statement on Monday following the nomination announcement in Algeria on Friday, highlighted Nigeria’s key role in Africa’s economic integration and Lagos’s status as a major hub.
According to the statement signed by Adewale Akodu, the Lagos state ministry of commerce, cooperatives, trade and investment (MCCTI) spokesperson, the nomination signifies a historic milestone for Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
“We are very excited about the choice of Lagos for 2027 edition of this important fair,” Sanwo-Olu said.
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“But we are not surprised because it is a reflection of our resilience, our strength and our commitment to the Greater Lagos journey as illustrated by our T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.
“We are striving towards making Lagos a global financial hub; this will definitely boost our efforts.
“We have just successfully hosted GITEX, the global tech expo and, in a few days, we will be hosting the spectacular E1 electric boat race, the first in Africa, which will put us in the company of leading cities, such as Monaco, Jeddah and others.
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“We keep making history. It is the Spirit of Lagos at work.”
The governor described the nomination as a vivid acknowledgment of the state’s commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda, which has impacted positively on Nigeria’s economy.
“It is a lot of work. I assure all would-be participants that we will have a great outing here in Africa’s most populous city, the continent’s second largest city economy,” he said.
“Lagos is, indeed, proud of this honor. On behalf of the government and the great people of Lagos, I thank the organisers for bestowing this honour on us.”
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‘A PROUD MOMENT FOR LAGOS AND NIGERIA’
Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, commissioner for commerce, cooperatives, trade and investment, said the nomination to host the continent’s bi-annual premier trade event is a proud moment for Lagos and Nigeria, promoting intra-African trade and AfCFTA implementation.
Ambrose-Medebem said the opportunity is a strategic milestone for Nigeria and West Africa in boosting continental trade integration.
“Hosting the IATF 2027 positions us at the forefront of Africa’s trade future and reaffirms our commitment to fostering regional collaboration, investment, and innovation,” she said.
“It is particularly in line with the Lagos State Development Plan 2052 being implemented by Mr. Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration. We are ready to welcome Africa and the world to our vibrant city.
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“With a population of over 23 million, strategic coastal access, and a diverse, entrepreneurial economy, Lagos offers the ideal setting for trade, dialogue, and business partnerships that will shape the future of Africa.
“The fair is expected to attract over 1,600 exhibitors, 35,000 visitors, and generate billions of dollars in trade and investment deals.”
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The commissioner highlighted Lagos’ strategic economic position, gateway to West Africa, and commitment to AfCFTA as key reasons for its nomination to host IATF 2027.
Ambrose-Medebem affirmed that Lagos state, in partnership with the federal government and other stakeholders, will deliver a world-class trade fair that will unlock new markets, strengthen business ties, and drive sustainable growth across Africa.
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