Nigeria’s Premier Trade Platform Set to Reignite: The Return of the Nigeria International Trade Fair 2025

By Azeez Disu

After a hiatus of several years, the Nigeria International Trade Fair (NITF) is making a momentous return from 21 to 30 November 2025, at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex. Restoring its original name and identity, NITF 2025 aims to reaffirm Nigeria’s position as West Africa’s leading marketplace and a vital gateway for cross-border trade within the region.

This revitalised edition is themed “Trade, Technology and Transformation: Leveraging Digital Trade for Economic and Industrial Growth,” signalling Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to digitalisation and industrial innovation. The event promises to be a catalyst for growth, uniting diverse stakeholders to explore new avenues of commerce and development.

A Convergence of Opportunities and Innovation

As Nigeria’s flagship national trade platform, sanctioned by the Federal Government, NITF 2025 will gather an eclectic mix of businesses, policymakers, investors, and international exhibitors. The sectors represented will span textiles, electronics, agriculture, creative industries, manufacturing, and emerging technological fields. The fair will blend high-level B2B networking with public engagement, fostering meaningful deals, insightful industry discussions, and storytelling that celebrates Nigeria’s economic resilience and potential.

Building on the momentum of last year’s successful Commercial & Industrial Trade Fair, this edition aims to showcase Nigeria’s diverse economic landscape and deepen regional integration. It also underscores Nigeria’s strategic focus on digital trade and industrial growth,  key pillars for national development in the coming decade.

Leadership Voices: Commitment to Growth and Connectivity

Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, highlighted the significance of the event: “Reviving the Nigeria International Trade Fair under its original banner is a strategic move to bolster Nigeria’s industrial and trade sectors. It affirms our dedication to building a connected, prosperous economy that links Nigerian producers to global markets.”

Barr. Safiya Ndanusa, CEO of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, added: “This year’s fair is expected to attract over 10,000 visitors from across the globe over ten days, including delegates from multiple countries. The return of the NITF Awards will further elevate the event’s profile, providing a vital platform for West African businesses to connect, expand, and formalise deals.”

In partnership with NACCIMA and key industry leaders, the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board has been instrumental in orchestrating this event, which aligns with Nigeria’s vision of leveraging digital technology for industrialisation and economic prosperity.

Celebrating Nigeria’s Commercial Legacy: The “Reignite the Torch” Poster Challenge

In honour of Nigeria’s vibrant trade history, NITF 2025 has launched the “Reignite the Torch” Poster Challenge, a national design competition inviting young Nigerian creatives to reinterpret the inaugural NITF poster from 1962. Celebrating over 60 years of commerce, creativity, and enterprise, the initiative aims to bridge Nigeria’s legacy with the vision of a new generation shaping the future.

The winning poster will headline the 2025 campaign and the creator will receive a prize of ₦1.5 million, alongside an opportunity for national exposure during the fair’s opening week. The theme, “Reignite the Torch: 60+ Years of Nigerian Trade Vision,” underscores the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation.

A Gateway to West Africa’s Future

Nigeria’s strategic position as West Africa’s economic powerhouse is reinforced by robust reforms, a diversifying economy, and a dynamic private sector. The nation’s sectors including agriculture, digital services, manufacturing, creative industries, renewable energy, and infrastructure are poised for exponential growth.

Intra-African trade is on the rise, with projections indicating an increase from 15 per cent in 2023 to 25 per cent by 2030 under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Nigeria’s leadership in intra-regional commerce is exemplified by its 2024 intra-African trade volume of US$18.4 billion, the highest in West Africa.

Key Figures and Official Highlights

The opening ceremony on 21 November will feature distinguished guests, including: Senator Kashim Shettima Mustapha, Vice President of Nigeria as Special Guest of Honour; AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Governor of Kwara State as Guest of Honour. Others are Senator Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State;  and His Royal Highness, Brig. Gen. Yahaya Abubakar, Etsu Nupe as Royal Father of the Day.

The Chief Host is Dr. Oduwole Jumoke, Honorable Minister,  Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FFMITI and the Co Chief Host is Sen. John Owan Enoh, Hon. Minister of State for Industry, FFMITI

A Bright Future for Nigeria and West Africa

Nigeria’s leadership in intra-African trade, coupled with ongoing reforms, positions the nation as a critical player in the continent’s economic integration. With projected growth in intra-Africa trade and ongoing investments, Nigeria stands poised to unlock its full potential as a regional hub for commerce, innovation, and industrialisation.

NITF 2025 promises to be more than a trade fair, it is Nigeria’s declaration of its renewed vigour and unwavering ambition to lead West Africa into a prosperous, digitally connected future.