The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called on Africans to deepen trade, strengthen investment, and build structures that guarantee sustainable economic growth across the continent.
Chief Emeka Obegolu, President of ACCI, made the call at the opening of the 20th Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF) on Monday in Abuja.
Obegolu described the fair as a vibrant meeting point for ideas, brands, partnerships, and opportunities, noting that the theme of this year’s edition, “Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation,” reflects a collective resolve to address pressing economic and environmental challenges.
According to him, the AITF has evolved from a modest local exhibition into Nigeria’s most influential multi-sectoral trade platform and one of Africa’s most recognised trade events.
“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 said.
He stressed that the 20th edition provides a strategic platform for business leaders seeking expansion opportunities, government institutions driving reforms, and international partners exploring trade prospects on the continent.
Obegolu further explained that the fair would enable policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and development partners to examine how consumption patterns, incentives, and taxation can be aligned to promote responsible production, attract investment, and encourage environmental stewardship in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
On the sidelines of the event, ACCI also hosted the second edition of the investiture of National Policy Fellows (NPF), which honoured 12 distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions to business and economic development.
The ACCI president said the NPF initiative underscores the chamber’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and innovative economy, while also enhancing Abuja’s reputation as a hub of economic excellence.
In his goodwill message, Mr. Jani Ibrahim, National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), commended ACCI’s efforts in attracting both exhibitors and investors into Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to think globally, act locally, and compete internationally, while stressing the need to prioritise climate change, renewable energy, green finance, digital trade, and innovation as key drivers of the nation’s growth.
Mrs. Fatima Abdurrahman, representative of Dangote Industries Ltd, described the group’s partnership with ACCI as a strategic one built on the vision of a prosperous and industrialised Nigeria.
She said the theme of the fair was not only timely but also strategic, as it moves the conversation on sustainability beyond environmental concerns into the context of economic strategy and national development.
International representatives at the event also pledged their commitment to supporting ACCI’s efforts in promoting Nigeria’s economic advancement.
