By Vivian Emoni
The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), says an estimated 100,000 visitors and 10, 000 products will be showcased at the 2026 Abuja International Trade Fair.
The fair scheduled to hold from Sept. 25 to Oct. 6, will be graced by 500 exhibitors.
Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, First Deputy President of the ACCI disclosed this while briefing newsmen on the preparation ahead of its 21st AITF, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Adesugba said that the theme of the event is“Resilience, Taxation and the Economy.”
He added that the fair would focus on promoting trade and investment opportunities, facilitating discussions on tax reforms and their impact on businesses.
He said that AITF would showcase innovative products and technologies, strengthening Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Government (B2G) engagements.
He further said that the fair would be encouraging economic diversification and providing a platform for policy advocacy between the private sector and government institutions.
“This year’s edition is expected to host more than 500 exhibitors, showcasing more than 10,000 products, solutions and services, while attracting approximately 100,000 visitors and participants.
“Participants will include local and international businesses, manufacturers, financial institutions, government agencies, diplomatic missions, development organisations, investors, entrepreneurs and policymakers.
“Special attention will be given to emerging sectors such as financial technology, digital payments, taxation technology, sustainable transportation, food processing, environmental sustainability and other innovative solutions that support inclusive economic growth and resilience.’’
Adesugba, also the Chairman, 21st AITF Organising Committee, said the trade fair marks 21 years of promoting trade, investment, enterprise development and economic cooperation.
He added that the fair has grown into one of Nigeria’s leading trade and investment platforms, attracting businesses, investors, policymakers and development partners from across Africa and beyond.
He said that the theme of the fair reflectes challenges facing businesses amid economic uncertainties, inflation, exchange rate volatility and technological changes.
The ACCI first deputy president said the fair would provide a platform for dialogue, innovation and collaboration aimed at strengthening business resilience and supporting sustainable economic growth.
He said that participants would enjoy side attractions, including the Miss AITF 2026 competition and the BABAFEST AITF weekend celebrating African entrepreneurship, creativity and intra-African trade.
According to him, BABAFEST will feature music performances, art exhibitions, fashion shows, networking opportunities and brand activations to promote economic empowerment through the creative industry.
“The fair offers businesses access to markets, customers, investors, government institutions and strategic partners within Nigeria and other countries.
“The ACCI is inviting exhibitors, sponsors, investors, development partners, diplomatic missions and the public to participate in the 21st edition and explore available business opportunities,’’ he said.
Adesugba reaffirmed the chamber`s commitment to supporting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through exhibitions, networking opportunities and market access initiatives that promote job creation and innovation.
Mr Agabaidu Jideani, Director-General of the ACCI, said the fair remained a major platform for promoting innovation, industrial development and regional cooperation, while creating business opportunities across Nigeria and Africa.
Jideani noted that the 2026 edition would address challenges arising from economic uncertainties, tax reforms, technological disruptions and changing global trade dynamics through dialogue and partnerships.
He reiterated the chamber’s commitment to policies that support enterprise development, improve ease of doing business, attract investment and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness.
“The chamber is dedicated and committed towards delivering an event that will set new standards, deepen business networking, enhance market connectivity, promote innovation and further strengthen Nigeria’s business and investment landscape.
“The fair will bring together businesses, investors, policymakers, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, development partners and diplomats to explore investment opportunities and strategic partnerships,’’ he said.
The director-general commended the organising committee, sponsors, exhibitors, partners and media for supporting the fair’s growth and expressed optimism for a successful 21st edition. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Francis Onyeukwu