Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the nomination of Lagos as host of the 2027 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) as a historic milestone for Nigeria and West Africa.
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the African Union and the AfCFTA Secretariat announced Lagos as the host city during the ongoing 2025 IATF in Algiers, Algeria.
Sanwo-Olu, reacting to the announcement, said the decision underlines Nigeria’s role in Africa’s economic integration and Lagos’ reputation as a commercial powerhouse. “This is a reflection of our resilience and commitment to the Greater Lagos journey. Hosting IATF will further strengthen our ambition to become a global financial hub,” he said.
He added that the event aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and pledged Lagos’ readiness to deliver a world-class fair.
Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folashade Ambrose, said hosting the biennial event would attract over 1,600 exhibitors, 35,000 visitors and generate billions of dollars in trade deals. She noted that Lagos’ large population, coastal access and entrepreneurial economy make it an ideal host city.
She stressed that the fair will accelerate Nigeria’s implementation of AfCFTA and boost competitiveness of local industries, while preparations will focus on infrastructure, logistics, security and hospitality.
Ambrose is currently leading a delegation of 20 SMEs to the 2025 IATF in Algiers under the Lagos Export Readiness Programme.
(NAN)