By Pius Awunah
The 20th edition of the Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF) is scheduled for September 25 to October 6, 2025,the President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Dr. Emeka Obegolu has announced.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Monday, September 8,2025,Obegolu said the fair would provide a platform for businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs to showcase innovations, foster partnerships, and expand trade opportunities.
According to him, there is a need to ensure that Nigeria’s economic growth is sustainable, inclusive, and driven by innovation.
The president, who was represented by the 2nd Deputy President and Chairman of the 20th edition of AITF, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong noted that “the 20th edition is a celebration of 20 years of sustained excellence, innovation, and economic impact.”
“In the last two decades, the AITF hosted over 2,500 exhibitors from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas; attracted more than 1.5 million visitors from diverse economic sectors, facilitated billions of naira in trade deals, investments, and partnerships.
“It also established platforms that have driven B2B, B2G, and B2C engagements; provided consistent visibility for SMEs, enabling them to reach new markets locally and internationally; fostered collaborations with over 40 diplomatic missions, trade agencies, and international business associations.
“These milestones reflect the AITF’s role as a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic growth and a key driver of Africa’s integration into the global economy,” the ACCI boss stated.
He also disclosed that the trade fair with the theme “Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives, and Taxation” underscores the Chamber’s commitment to tackling pressing economic and environmental challenges.
“This year’s Fair will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and development partners to examine how consumption patterns, incentives, and taxation can be aligned to drive responsible production, investment, and environmental stewardship, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”,he added.
Obegolu revealed that the major highlight of the 20th AITF would be the launch of the Buy Africa, Build Africa, BABA FEST- an initiative of the ACCI to promote African products and services within the continent and globally.
“BABA FEST will celebrate Africa’s creativity, talent, and entrepreneurial energy through: Live performances by top African artists; fashion showcases featuring African designers; Immersive art exhibitions; Exclusive investment and networking sessions; Brand activations showcasing Africa’s competitiveness in global markets.
“The 20th AITF will feature over 100,000 participants across 12 days; exhibitions covering trade, industry, agriculture, fintech, sustainable energy, transportation, environmental solutions, and creative industries and panel sessions”, Obegolu explained.
He added that the Abuja International Trade Fair continues to be a meeting point for business leaders seeking investment and market expansion; government agencies driving policy and economic growth; international partners exploring trade and investment prospects;
SMEs seeking visibility, financing, and partnerships.
