20th Abuja International Trade Fair Opens as FG Reaffirms Commitment to National Economic Development

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to implementing tax regimes, policies, and programmes that will foster the growth and development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across the country.

President Bola Tinubu made this known in Abuja during the opening ceremony of the 20th Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF), organized by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), with the theme “Sustainability, Consumption, Incentives, and Taxation.

Represented by the Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the President commended the ACCI for its consistency and professionalism in hosting the fair over the past two decades. He emphasized the importance of effective collaboration between the public and private sectors in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration in the area of economic development.

In a goodwill message, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Nyesom Wike, assured that the FCT Administration would continue to partner with ACCI to reposition the economy of the Territory. He praised the contributions of ACCI to the GDP of the FCT over the last twenty years and pledged sustained investments in infrastructure and support systems to drive small business growth.

Delivering his welcome address, the President of ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu, highlighted the remarkable growth of the trade fair from a modest exhibition to Nigeria’s most influential multi-sectoral trade platform and one of Africa’s most recognized trade events.

According to him, in its 20 years of existence, the AITF has:

Hosted over 2,500 exhibitors from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas;

Attracted more than 1.5 million visitors across multiple sectors;

Facilitated billions of naira in trade deals, investments, and partnerships;

Provided visibility for SMEs, granting them access to new markets;

Strengthened collaborations with over 40 diplomatic missions, trade agencies, and international business associations.

“These achievements underscore the pivotal role of the AITF as a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic growth and Africa’s integration into the global economy. The theme of this year’s edition reflects our resolve to tackle pressing economic and environmental challenges,” Chief Obegolu stated.

He further noted that Nigeria’s economic expansion must be anchored on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. The fair, he explained, provides a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and development partners to deliberate on aligning consumption patterns, incentives, and taxation with strategies that promote responsible production, attract investments, and advance environmental sustainability in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Highlights of AITF 2025
This year’s fair will run for 12 days, featuring over 100,000 participants. It will showcase exhibitions in trade, agriculture, fintech, sustainable energy, transportation, environmental solutions, and the creative industries. Panel sessions will involve key institutions such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, FIRS, FCT-IRS, the National Council on Climate Change, relevant ministries, international agencies, banks, fintech innovators, and clean technology leaders. Dedicated SME platforms will also reaffirm the commitment to small businesses as the backbone of economic growth.

Launch of BABA FEST – Buy Africa, Build Africa
A major highlight of this year’s edition is the introduction of BABA FEST (Buy Africa, Build Africa), a flagship ACCI initiative to celebrate African products, services, and creativity both locally and globally.

The festival will feature:

Live performances by renowned African artists;

Fashion runways by top African designers;

Immersive art exhibitions;

Exclusive investment and networking sessions;

Brand activations to showcase Africa’s global competitiveness.

“This is more than a festival; it is a call to action for Africans to trade with Africa, invest in Africa, and build Africa,” Obegolu added.

In his remarks, the National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Jamil Ibrahim, congratulated ACCI on the 20th anniversary of AITF. He pledged NACCIMA’s continuous support and stressed the need for a more conducive business environment in Nigeria.

Other dignitaries, including captains of industry, members of the diplomatic corps, state governors, and other stakeholders in Nigeria’s economic sector, also commended ACCI’s efforts over the years and urged the Chamber to sustain its momentum in driving national economic development.