By Peter Omopo
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described Lagos’ nomination as the host city for the 2027 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) as a historic milestone for Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
The announcement was made in Algiers by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the African Union, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat during the ongoing IATF 2025.
In a statement issued on Monday by Mr. Adewale Akodu, spokesperson for the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Sanwo-Olu said the choice of Lagos reaffirms the state’s role as Africa’s commercial hub and its alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are excited about this choice, though not surprised, because it reflects the resilience and strength of our Greater Lagos vision,” the governor said. “Hosting IATF 2027 will position Lagos among leading global cities while boosting our drive to become a financial hub.”
Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’ track record in hosting global events such as GITEX and the upcoming E1 electric boat race, saying the fair would further consolidate the state’s global standing.
Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose, described the hosting rights as a “strategic milestone” for Nigeria. She said the fair is expected to attract over 1,600 exhibitors, 35,000 visitors, and generate billions of dollars in trade and investment deals.
“Hosting IATF 2027 positions Lagos at the forefront of Africa’s trade future and aligns with the Lagos State Development Plan 2052,” she said. “With a population of over 23 million, strategic coastal access, and an entrepreneurial economy, Lagos offers the ideal setting for trade and investment partnerships that will shape the continent’s future.”
Preparations for the event will involve collaboration between the Lagos State Government, the Federal Government, Afreximbank, the AU, and the AfCFTA Secretariat, with focus on infrastructure, logistics, security, and hospitality.
Ambrose, who is leading a delegation of 20 SMEs to the 2025 fair in Algiers, noted that Lagos’ selection underscores Africa’s confidence in Nigeria’s leadership and the city’s readiness to deliver a world-class event.
