Cross River State has secured the hosting rights for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2026, positioning Calabar as the next continental hub for trade, culture, and investment.

The announcement was formalised in Algiers, Algeria, where Governor Bassey Otu signed the host rights during the 5th Sub-Sovereign Business Engagement on the sidelines of IATF 2025.

Otu described the development as a milestone not only for Cross River but for Nigeria and Africa. “This is a profound honour for our state and a defining moment for Africa’s sub-sovereign governments,” he said. “Cross River is ready to lead Africa into a new era of trade and cooperation, where our local power fuels global impact.”

The governor stressed that the 2026 edition in Calabar would reflect the best of Africa’s ingenuity, heritage, and innovation. “We are prepared to host the world,” he declared. “In Calabar, you will encounter a city that is second to none in hospitality, culture, and tourism.”

We will deliver a trade fair that Africa will never forget, because it will showcase who we are and what we can achieve together.”

Otu also praised the vision of Afrexim Bank in supporting intra-African trade, particularly the creative industries, which he called “Africa’s new goldmine.”

He said: “Afrexim has shown tremendous leadership in standing behind Africa’s creative sector. They understand that our music, our film, our art, and our stories are not just cultural treasures, but economic powerhouses that can compete anywhere in the world.”

Highlighting the role of sub-sovereign governments, the governor urged regional leaders to embrace their responsibility in Africa’s growth. “The way forward is for governors and sub-national entities to be the transformers and architects of Africa’s future,” he said. “It is at this level that real impact is felt, and it is at this level that we can unlock the full promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area.” (THE GUARDIAN)

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