Nigeria has hosted the official launch of the African Trade Centre (AATC) in Abuja, a flagship initiative of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), marking a significant step toward enhancing intra-African trade and advancing regional economic integration.
At the commissioning ceremony, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, hailed the AATC as “a milestone for Nigeria and the entire continent,” aligning with the Tinubu administration’s economic agenda focused on macroeconomic stability, private sector investment, and industrial expansion.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, highlighted the AATC’s strategic role in fostering economic diversification, creating jobs, and expanding access to finance—especially for SMEs and women-led enterprises.
Afreximbank President, Prof. Benedict Oramah, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to breaking down trade barriers and promoting African market integration. He noted that similar trade centres are planned for Harare, Kampala, Cairo, and Yaoundé.
The Abuja-based AATC will serve as a continental hub for trade intelligence, innovation, and collaboration—further solidifying Nigeria’s role in shaping Africa’s economic future.