The Significance of Hosting the Intra-African Trade Fair 2027 in Lagos, Nigeria
The Nigerian private sector has expressed immense optimism about the potential benefits of hosting the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027 in Lagos. Leading organizations such as the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) have lauded the Federal Government’s successful bid, viewing it as a major catalyst for trade, investment, and enterprise development in Nigeria. They see the event as not only an economic boon but also a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
NACCIMA has emphasized the transformative potential of IATF 2027 for Nigerian businesses, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The fair is expected to provide an unprecedented platform for these businesses to showcase their products and services to a vast African and global audience. This increased visibility is anticipated to boost their competitiveness, facilitate access to trade finance and investment capital, and ultimately contribute to their growth and expansion. Furthermore, hosting the event is seen as solidifying Lagos’s position as a key gateway for trade and innovation on the continent.
The LCCI echoes NACCIMA’s enthusiasm, highlighting the IATF’s potential to significantly expand Nigeria’s export capabilities. By attracting both foreign and local investment, the fair is expected to stimulate economic activity and create new opportunities for businesses of all sizes. The LCCI views the event as a historic opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s economic prowess and solidify its leadership role within the AfCFTA framework. This aligns with the broader goal of promoting intra-African trade and fostering greater economic integration across the continent.
Both NACCIMA and LCCI have committed to actively supporting the successful execution of IATF 2027. NACCIMA has pledged to mobilize its network of chambers of commerce and partners to ensure maximum participation and benefit realization for Nigerian businesses. The LCCI, leveraging its extensive experience in organizing international trade fairs, will contribute its expertise to the planning and delivery of a world-class event. Both organizations are committed to collaborating with relevant stakeholders, including Lagos State, Afreximbank, the African Union, and others, to maximize the positive impact of IATF 2027 on Nigeria.
The IATF 2025, held in Algiers, Algeria, provides a compelling example of the scale and impact of these trade fairs. Attracting over 2,000 exhibitors and 35,000 participants from over 140 countries, the event facilitated trade and investment deals exceeding $44 billion. This underscores the significant economic potential that IATF 2027 holds for Nigeria. The Algiers event, themed “Gateway to New Opportunities,” focused on deepening intra-African trade and investment within the AfCFTA framework. It also incorporated diverse programs, including the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) for arts and culture, the Africa Automotive Show, Diaspora Day, and various forums focused on youth, women, research, and innovation.
Hosting IATF 2027 represents a significant opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its economic potential, strengthen its position within the AfCFTA, and foster greater intra-African trade and investment. The event is expected to benefit businesses of all sizes, particularly MSMEs, by providing them with a platform to access new markets, attract investment, and enhance their competitiveness. With the strong support and collaboration of key stakeholders, including the private sector, government agencies, and international organizations, IATF 2027 is poised to be a transformative event for Nigeria and the wider African continent. The success of previous IATFs, such as the one held in Algiers in 2025, underscores the significant economic impact that these trade fairs can generate. By leveraging its experience and expertise, Nigeria aims to deliver a world-class event that further strengthens economic ties and promotes sustainable development across Africa.
