By NIyi Jacobs
The Federal Government of Nigeria and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) have signed the Host Country Agreement for the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM), set to take place in Abuja from June 23 to 28, 2025. This landmark event is expected to be the largest gathering of Global Africa in the Bank’s history, bringing together over 6,000 delegates, including Heads of State, top government officials, business leaders, policymakers, academics, and investors from across Africa, the CARICOM region, and beyond.
A Premier Platform for Africa’s Economic Growth
The Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM) are among Africa’s most anticipated financial and economic gatherings, featuring high-level policy discussions, expert presentations, and networking sessions designed to strengthen Africa’s trade and investment landscape. Each year, the event serves as a catalyst for economic integration, bringing together key decision-makers to address critical issues related to trade financing, industrialization, infrastructure development, and economic resilience.
This year’s theme, “Building the Future on Decades of Resilience,” will focus on Africa’s economic progress over the past three decades and the strategies needed to navigate global uncertainties while leveraging opportunities such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to drive sustainable growth.
Nigeria’s Role as Host and Strategic Partner
H.E. Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, emphasized the country’s commitment to strengthening African trade and economic transformation.
“Nigeria is honored to host the 2025 Afreximbank Annual Meetings, which will serve as a critical platform to drive discussions on trade financing, economic growth, and investment opportunities across Africa. This event is a testament to our commitment to strengthening Africa’s financial sector and positioning Nigeria as a hub for economic transformation.”
Nigeria has played a pivotal role in Afreximbank’s success, standing as its second-largest shareholder and a consistent supporter of the Bank’s capital mobilization and strategic initiatives. The country’s dedication to Afreximbank’s mission has facilitated significant investments in trade and development, helping to bolster Africa’s economic independence and global standing.
Afreximbank’s Enduring Impact on Africa
Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, acknowledged Nigeria’s unwavering support and highlighted the Bank’s transformative role across the continent.
“We greatly appreciate the Federal Government of Nigeria’s support in hosting the 2025 Afreximbank Annual Meetings. This reflects our shared commitment to accelerating Africa’s economic growth and development. Over the years, Nigeria has been a steadfast partner, consistently responding to capital calls and removing regulatory barriers that would otherwise hinder the Bank’s operations in Nigeria.
“Nigeria has also been the largest recipient of our trade and development financing, with cumulative disbursements of about $52 billion. The country was the first to benefit from several flagship projects, including the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE), the African Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC), and the Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC). These initiatives are reshaping Africa’s economic and healthcare landscape, reinforcing our mission to drive sustainable development.”
A Global Stage for Investment and Economic Collaboration
Building on the success of the 2024 Afreximbank Annual Meetings in Nassau, The Bahamas, the 2025 edition in Abuja is expected to surpass all previous records in terms of attendance, influence, and impact.
The event will feature:
Keynote speeches by Heads of State and global leaders
Panel discussions on Africa’s economic transformation
High-level networking sessions for investors and policymakers
Presentations on trade finance, AfCFTA implementation, and industrialization
Side events focused on emerging sectors, including digital finance and green energy
The AAM serves as a platform for Africa to celebrate its economic achievements, forge stronger trade relationships, and advance its role in global markets.
Strengthening Africa’s Economic Sovereignty
Prof. Oramah stressed that the AAM 2025 will be more than a conference—it will be a defining moment in Africa’s journey toward economic sovereignty.
“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has given our continent an unrivaled opportunity to deliver economic transformation, lifting millions out of poverty and strengthening Africa’s trade position globally. The Afreximbank Annual Meetings will provide an opportunity to reflect on our journey, celebrate milestones, and chart a new course for Africa’s economic self-reliance. We look forward to welcoming global stakeholders to Abuja for what promises to be an unparalleled gathering of Africa’s finest minds and leaders.”
A Legacy of Commitment: From 1993 to 2025
Nigeria’s deep-rooted relationship with Afreximbank dates back to October 1993, when the Bank’s founding General Meeting was held in Abuja. Three decades later, hosting AAM 2025 in the same city signifies a full-circle moment, reinforcing Nigeria’s role as a strategic anchor in Afreximbank’s success story.
With Africa’s brightest leaders, policymakers, and investors converging in Abuja, the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings will be a historic milestone, shaping the future of Africa’s economic development.
