Lagos, Nigeria, 9 March 2026 – The AfCFTA Secretariat participated in the signing ceremony of the hosting agreement for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027, which will be held in Lagos, Nigeria, alongside the Advisory Council Meeting on the event.

The Advisory Council reviewed key preparations, including the strategic direction, thematic priorities, timelines, budget, and institutional arrangements to ensure that the Trade Fair delivers meaningful outcomes for African businesses.

Speaking on behalf of H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, Ms. Cynthia Gnassingbe-Essonam noted that these engagements represented an important step in advancing the AfCFTA through practical platforms that connect African businesses, investors, and policymakers.

As Africa’s premier trade and investment platform, the Intra-African Trade Fair continues to translate the AfCFTA into real commercial opportunities, strengthen regional value chains, and expand participation by African enterprises.

The Secretariat commended the Government of Nigeria, Lagos State, African Export-Import Bank, and partners for their leadership in bringing IATF 2027 to Lagos.