The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called on Africans to deepen intra-continental trade, expand investment, and collaborate in building a stronger and more sustainable economy.
Speaking at the opening of the 20th Abuja International Trade Fair, the chamber’s president described the annual fair as “a vibrant hub for ideas, brands, partnerships and opportunities,” positioning it as Nigeria’s most influential multi-sectoral trade platform and one of Africa’s leading trade events.
This year’s theme, “Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation,” underscores the chamber’s commitment to addressing economic and environmental challenges. It highlights the need to align consumption patterns, incentives, and tax policies with sustainable production, investment attraction, and environmental stewardship in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“This is more than a festival; it is a call to action for Africans to trade with Africa, invest in Africa and build Africa,” the president said, emphasizing the fair’s role in driving expansion for business leaders, government reforms, and international trade partnerships.
On the sidelines, the chamber also hosted the second investiture of its National Policy Fellows, recognising 12 distinguished individuals for contributions to business, academia, civil society, human rights, public service, and community development.
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The president of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) praised ACCI for attracting investors and exhibitors to Nigeria, stressing the importance of stronger partnerships for economic growth. He urged Nigerians to “think globally, act locally and compete internationally,” while prioritising climate change, renewable energy, digital trade, and innovation.
He further called for resilience through local partnerships, export diversification, and greater inclusion of women and youth in trade to strengthen Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
In her remarks, a representative of Dangote Industries described the company’s partnership with ACCI as a strategic collaboration rooted in a shared vision of prosperity and industrialisation. She noted that the fair’s theme is “timely and strategically important” as it situates sustainability within Nigeria’s broader economic strategy.
International delegates at the event also pledged their support in advancing Nigeria’s economy through stronger trade and investment ties, reinforcing the fair’s role as a continental platform for growth and collaboration.
