Governor Sanwo-Olu hails Lagos’ nomination to host IATF 2027, calling it a milestone for Nigeria and Africa’s trade integration

Governor Sanwo-Olu has hailed Lagos State’s nomination as host city for the 2027 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), calling it a major step toward positioning Nigeria as a central hub for Africa’s trade future.

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The announcement was made by the African Export-Import Bank, the African Union, and the AfCFTA Secretariat during the ongoing IATF 2025 in Algiers. The confirmation marks the first time Nigeria will host the prestigious biannual event.

In a statement issued Monday by Adewale Akodu, spokesperson for the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the nomination as both historic and well-deserved.

“We are very excited about the choice of Lagos… It is a reflection of our resilience, our strength, and our commitment to the Greater Lagos journey,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He noted that Lagos had recently hosted GITEX Africa Roadshow and is set to launch Africa’s first E1 electric boat race, placing the city alongside international hubs like Monaco and Jeddah.

The governor also linked the nomination to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stating that Lagos’ selection reaffirms its economic leadership role in Africa.

“This is not just a win for Lagos; it is a win for Nigeria and the West African region. It aligns perfectly with our T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda,” he added.

The Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose, described the nomination as a strategic milestone, one that could attract over 1,600 exhibitors, 35,000 visitors, and generate billions of dollars in trade deals.

“Hosting IATF 2027 positions Lagos at the forefront of Africa’s trade and economic integration,” Ambrose stated.

She emphasized Lagos’ unmatched advantages: a population of over 23 million, coastal access, a diverse economy, and a growing digital and infrastructural ecosystem.

Ambrose also highlighted that preparations will involve close collaboration between the Lagos State Government, the Federal Government, Afreximbank, and the AfCFTA Secretariat, ensuring delivery of a world-class event.

Key Highlights:

Lagos is Africa’s second-largest city economy.
Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation.
IATF is the continent’s leading platform for intra-African trade.
The 2027 edition is expected to boost SMEs, infrastructure, and exports.

Ambrose is currently leading a delegation of 20 Lagos-based SMEs trained under the state’s Export Readiness Programme to IATF 2025 in Algiers.

She also delivered the keynote address at the SME Pavilion for Africa.

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As the continent builds a more integrated trade ecosystem under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the 2027 fair in Lagos is set to become a defining moment in accelerating sustainable growth and unlocking new market opportunities.