Lagos will host IATF 2027 in November, making the city Africa’s emerging business hub.
Nigeria aims to secure over $50 billion in trade and investment deals during the event.
Moreover, Dr Jumoke Oduwole announced Nigeria’s commitment at Monday’s IATF 2027 signing ceremony.
Lagos As Africa’s Business Hub
The agreement confirms that Nigeria will lead the fifth edition of the continental trade fair.
Consequently, the target surpasses the $48.3 billion deals recorded at IATF 2025 in Algiers.
Driving Partnerships And Innovation
Previously, the Algiers fair attracted 112,000 visitors from 132 countries, with nearly 1,000 buyers attending.
Additionally, over 2,100 exhibitors showcased goods and services, driving partnerships across Africa and beyond.
In that event, Algeria secured $11.4 billion, representing almost a quarter of total trade deals.
Oduwole expects over 100,000 physical and virtual guests to actively participate in Lagos 2027.
Furthermore, she emphasised connections with the Caribbean and African diaspora boosting Nigeria’s economic leadership.
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IATF also strengthens AfCFTA goals, fostering a unified African market and regional trade opportunities.
FMITI and NEPC coordinate closely with partners to ensure the fair achieves maximum economic impact.
Moreover, past editions demonstrate how IATF transforms innovation, partnerships, and Africa’s global economic visibility.
George Elombi highlighted Nigerian entrepreneur Ndubusi Arinze Eze, who gained global attention at IATF 2021.
His drone company now provides agricultural technology worldwide, exemplifying how trade fairs create success stories.
Expanding Intra-African Trade
Similarly, events like IATF strengthen local industries, create jobs, and increase government revenues across Africa.
Currently, Nigeria and West Africa spend $3 billion yearly importing meat despite abundant livestock resources.
Therefore, expanding intra-African trade will strengthen regional value chains and reduce dependence on foreign imports.
Ultimately, Lagos 2027 promises to showcase African ambition, collaboration, and continental economic reinvention.
