Nigeria has commenced preparations to host two major continental events—the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) Weekend 2026 and the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027 following the inauguration of the National Steering Committee by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Oduwole described the development as a strategic national assignment that places Nigeria at the centre of Africa’s trade, investment, and creative economy agenda. She said the events would position the country as a leading platform for connecting commerce, culture, and economic cooperation across the continent.
The Minister highlighted the importance of the Intra-African Trade Fair, organised by Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union and the AfCFTA Secretariat. She noted that since its inception, the fair has generated over US$100 billion in trade and investment deals, with Nigeria’s hosting in 2027 expected to attract more than 50,000 delegates and facilitate transactions valued at over US$50 billion.
On CANEX Weekend 2026, Dr. Oduwole said the event would transform Lagos into a major hub for Africa’s creative and cultural industries. She explained that the programme would feature exhibitions, performances, masterclasses, and digital marketplaces designed to link fashion, film, music, art, and technology with business and investment opportunities.
She further disclosed that IATF 2027 would coincide with the 50th anniversary of FESTAC ’77 and would be hosted at the National Theatre, Iganmu. According to her, the convergence reflects Nigeria’s capacity to blend its rich cultural heritage with modern economic and trade leadership.
Dr. Oduwole explained that Nigeria’s selection as host followed Presidential approval, extensive consultations, and a rigorous due diligence process involving over 15 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, coordinated by Afreximbank and the African Union. She said the outcome demonstrated strong continental confidence in Nigeria’s institutional capacity.
The Minister also commended Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for the state’s readiness and continuous support, particularly in providing key infrastructure and venues for the events.
With the inauguration of the Steering Committee, she said coordinated implementation has begun. The events are projected to create over 50,000 jobs, generate more than US$100 million in economic activities in Lagos, and stimulate at least US$5 billion in trade and investment opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
Dr. Oduwole added that the Steering Committee would oversee the formation of specialised working groups, with representatives from relevant government agencies, to ensure effective planning and execution.
She concluded by describing the hosting of CANEX 2026 and IATF 2027 as a continental trust entrusted to Nigeria, expressing confidence that the country would deliver successful events that showcase its trade strength, creative capacity, and commitment to regional integration under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
