Nigeria to Host 5th Intra-African Trade Fair in Lagos

Nigeria has been selected to host the fifth edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), Africa’s premier trade and investment platform, scheduled for 2027 in Lagos.

The announcement was made at the ongoing 4th IATF in Algiers, Algeria, by President Olusegun Obasanjo, Chairman of the IATF Advisory Council and former President of Nigeria, following a competitive bidding and evaluation process.

Promoted by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the biennial IATF brings together businesses, investors, policymakers, and innovators to explore opportunities, deepen partnerships, and boost intra-African trade.

“IATF is not just a trade fair—it is a journey across our continent and global Africa, carried forward by nations that share in the vision of intra-African trade and regional integration. Since its inception, IATF has rotated across our continent, leaving its unique legacy and improving with each host nation. Today, we continue this proud tradition by announcing Nigeria as the country that will host IATF 2027,” said President Obasanjo.

“Hosting Africa’s Biggest Trade Fair Huge Milestone” – Nigeria’s Trade Minister

Receiving the IATF host’s flag, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, described the hosting rights as a historic milestone with far-reaching economic impact.

“Hosting IATF is a huge milestone for any country. It is the biggest trade fair in Africa. Some wonder why we want to host it—they say it’s expensive. But the value it brings to the economy is unquantifiable, which is why so many countries compete for it,” she said.

The Nigerian trade minister emphasized that IATF 2027 will be a watershed moment for Nigeria and Africa—unlocking economic potential, driving partnerships, and fostering growth across the continent. “The IATF 2027 presents a unique opportunity for us to celebrate our economic potential, address our challenges, and drive sustainable growth. We must innovate, invest, and work together to make this vision a reality.”

Nigeria’s role in AfCFTA’s Economic Future

By hosting IATF 2027, Nigeria joins an esteemed list of past hosts—Egypt (2018, 2023), South Africa (2021), and Algeria (2025)—each leaving a legacy of advancing Africa’s trade agenda.

Lagos, as the host city, offers a strategic business environment and vibrant cultural hub, positioning it as the ideal stage for Africa’s largest trade gathering. The fair will showcase Nigeria’s innovative identity while creating opportunities for over 1.4 billion people in AfCFTA’s single market, with a combined GDP exceeding $3.5 trillion.