News

WTC ABUJA WEBINAR SERIES

May 20, 2025 - WTC Abuja to Host 2nd Edition of Its Webinar Series: Exploring Nigeria’s Trade Advantage in a Shifting Global Landscape In an era of shifting trade patterns, economic nationalism, and supply chain realignments, businesses across the globe are seeking new markets that offer both resilience and potential for growth. In response to these evolving dynamics, the World Trade Center Abuja is pleased to announce the second edition of its Webinar Series, focused on helping global and local businesses navigate uncertainty and unlock opportunities in Nigeria’s evolving trade and investment landscape. Webinar Theme: “Nigeria’s Trade Competitiveness: Navigating Global Uncertainties and Breaking Barriers to Growth” 📅 Date: Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 🕚 Time: 11:00 AM WAT 💻 Venue: Zoom 🔗 Register Here Why Businesses Should Pay Attention As global trade becomes increasingly unpredictable, businesses that understand how to align their strategies with emerging markets and policy shifts will gain a significant advantage. Nigeria, with its vast population, expanding middle class, regional trade agreements, and reform-minded government, represents a strategic gateway into Africa’s broader market. Despite challenges in logistics, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks, Nigeria is actively working to enhance its trade competitiveness and attract foreign and domestic investment, especially in non-oil sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, technology, and services. This webinar is designed to help business leaders and investors understand: How to leverage global trade uncertainties for competitive positioning Where the policy and regulatory shifts in Nigeria are creating new openings Which sectors and regions in Nigeria are most primed for investment and expansion How to navigate trade barriers and access incentives for cross-border growth Expected Attendance 350+ participants including: Local and international business leaders Government stakeholders and trade agencies Investment facilitators and development finance institutions WTC network members and global trade actors Nigeria’s commitment to trade diversification, the AfCFTA framework, and growing digital adoption are converging to create a new frontier for business expansion. This webinar offers practical insights on how your business can tap into this momentum, despite global uncertainty. Join us for a solution-driven conversation that bridges policy insight with real business strategy. Together, let’s explore how businesses can thrive in uncertainty by betting on potential. Join us as we chart a path toward a more competitive, resilient, and inclusive trade future for Nigeria and the continent. For inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please contact: tradeservices@wtcabuja.com Read More

WTC ABUJA BUILDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS WITH MOUS

December 19, 2024 - Abuja, Nigeria – December 2024 – The World Trade Center (WTC), Abuja, Nigeria’s premier trade hub, has advanced its mission of fostering economic development and innovation by signing two transformative Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs). These landmark agreements, forged with the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and AfriLabs during the prestigious Sapphire Soirée—WTC Abuja’s End-of-Year Networking Cocktail— set a strong foundation for impactful collaboration in 2025 and beyond. Empowering Trade with ACCI The MOU with ACCI focuses on strengthening commerce, trade, and industry in Nigeria by leveraging the complementary expertise of both organizations. Key initiatives include: Trade Promotion: Enhancing market access for Nigerian businesses through joint trade and networking initiatives. Event Collaboration: Co-hosting trade fairs, expos, and business events to highlight entrepreneurial opportunities. Capacity Building: Offering training programs to equip businesses with skills for global competitiveness. Market Intelligence: Providing data-driven insights to support informed decision-making for stakeholders. “By aligning with ACCI, we unlock new trade opportunities, diversify Nigeria’s economy, and drive sustainable growth,” said David Opeyemi Oke, Head of Trade Services at WTC Abuja. This partnership reinforces efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s non-oil exports and boost global competitiveness. Advancing Digital Innovation with AfriLabs The partnership with AfriLabs, a Pan-African network of over 450 tech hubs across 53 countries, underscores a shared commitment to fostering digital trade and entrepreneurship. Focus areas include: Digital Trade Development: Using technology to connect African entrepreneurs to global markets. Technology Commercialization: Enabling innovators to bring transformative solutions to market. Collaborative Events: Organizing convenings to promote innovation and trade. Investment Access: Providing African innovators with WTC Abuja’s global trade network opportunities. “This collaboration bridges innovation and trade,” said Oke. “It empowers entrepreneurs and fosters Africa’s digital and economic growth.” The partnership aims to catalyze Africa’s digital economy and drive inclusive growth. A Commitment to Economic Transformation Signed in the presence of distinguished dignitaries and business leaders, these MOUs highlight WTC Abuja’s role in driving collaboration and economic transformation. By combining its global trade expertise with ACCI and AfriLabs’ strengths, WTC Abuja is positioning Nigeria and Africa as hubs of innovation and trade. As Africa gains global attention for its potential in innovation and commerce, these partnerships signal a bold vision for the continent’s future. WTC Abuja continues to connect local businesses to international opportunities, fostering sustainable development and economic growth. Read More

ICONIC SAPPHIRE SOIRÉE HIGHLIGHTS WTC ABUJA'S YEAR

December 19, 2024 - Abuja, Nigeria – December 6, 2024 – The World Trade Center Abuja hosted its prestigious annual End-of-Year Business and Networking Cocktail, themed “Sapphire Soirée”, at the Outdoor Reception of the WTC Abuja Commercial Tower. The event celebrated a year of exceptional achievements and set the stage for transformative partnerships and innovations in 2025. The soirée welcomed an esteemed gathering of leaders from the public and private sectors. Dignitaries included Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Honorable Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Members of the House of Representatives, and representatives from key government agencies such as the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, SMEDAN, SON, NEPC, NIPC, and NAIC. International and corporate entities also graced the occasion, including Netherlands-African Business Council (NABC), UN Women, and the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS). Representatives from prominent private organizations such as Oando, NNLG, Chevron, Nigeria Agip Exploration, Interswitch, Raffles Energy, and GE Operations International were present, underscoring the soirée’s status as a premier networking platform. Adding to the distinguished list of attendees were members of the WTC Abuja Business Club and strategic partners, including the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), MUSIAD Nigeria, and Afrilabs. The Sapphire Soirée combined elegance with purpose, offering a memorable evening enriched by impactful moments: Strategic Networking Opportunities: Attendees engaged in meaningful dialogues, fostering collaborations that transcend industries and borders. Insightful Presentations: The WTC Abuja team showcased the ecosystem’s 2024 milestones and unveiled its ambitious roadmap for 2025. MOU Signings: Two strategic Memorandums of Understanding were signed with Afrilabs and ACCI, cementing WTC Abuja’s commitment to advancing trade, promoting African integration, and driving sustainable economic growth. The Sapphire Soirée reaffirmed WTC Abuja’s commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening global partnerships, and positioning Africa as a hub of economic transformation. The event served as a platform for stakeholders to align on shared goals, inspiring a collective vision for 2025 and beyond. As the World Trade Center Abuja continues to lead with innovation and collaboration, the success of the Sapphire Soirée highlights its pivotal role as a catalyst for growth across industries and borders. The World Trade Center Abuja is a premier business and trade hub, driving economic growth through strategic partnerships, innovation, and cross-border collaborations. Through its annual programs, WTC Abuja remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s trade ecosystem, advancing its mission to promote sustainable development and global integration. Read More

WTC ABUJA & MUSIAD NIGERIA INKS MOU ON TRADE TIES

December 19, 2024 - In a landmark moment for Nigeria-Turkey business relations, the World Trade Center Abuja and MUSIAD Nigeria have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the beginning of a new era of collaboration aimed at enhancing trade and investment opportunities between the two nations. The signing took place during the grand opening of the MUSIAD Nigeria Branch, an event organized in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Abuja. The Vice President of WTC Abuja, in his address at the event, highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting that it builds upon the already strong ties between WTC Abuja and MUSIAD Headquarters in Istanbul. He recalled that WTC Abuja members had previously participated in the MUSIAD Expo 2022 in Istanbul, where productive discussions laid the groundwork for this MoU with MUSIAD Nigeria. “This agreement further underscores our commitment to strengthening trade ties and expanding opportunities for businesses in both Nigeria and Turkey,” the Vice President remarked. He also shared insights into how WTC Abuja and MUSIAD Nigeria have been engaged in ongoing discussions to address key trade bottlenecks and explore solutions that will unlock new business opportunities for members of both organizations. His Excellency, Ambassador Hidayet Bayraktar, the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, commended the signing of the MoU, reaffirming the Embassy’s continued support for initiatives that bolster Nigeria-Turkey trade relations. The signing of this MoU reinforces WTC Abuja’s commitment to international collaboration and its mission to facilitate global trade for the benefit of its members and the broader Nigerian business community. Through this partnership, WTC Abuja and MUSIAD Nigeria aim to strengthen trade ties, increase investment opportunities, and open new avenues for business growth between Nigeria and Turkey. As the event concluded, it was clear that this new chapter in Nigeria-Turkey relations holds immense potential, with the MoU serving as a key step toward greater economic collaboration between the two nations. Read More

WTC ABUJA BRIDGES TRADE PARTNERSHIPS WITH TURKEY

December 19, 2024 - The World Trade Center Abuja continues to make strides in fostering international collaboration and business partnerships, as demonstrated by its active participation in the grand opening of the MUSIAD Nigeria Branch. The event, held at the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Abuja, marked a significant milestone in trade relations between Nigeria and Turkey, with distinguished guests from both countries in attendance. Members of WTC Abuja expressed excitement about the opportunity to engage with fellow attendees, particularly during the networking sessions, and conveyed eagerness for future events and initiatives. They showed a keen interest in exploring business opportunities with their counterparts from MUSIAD Nigeria, particularly in the fields of real estate, architecture, and the fashion industry. They were also enthusiastic about building relationships with key Turkish stakeholders, aiming to foster deeper collaboration and unlock new business ventures. Esteemed dignitaries at the event shared their insights on the significance of this partnership. Mr. Ozer Tamer, Vice President of MUSIAD Nigeria, and Mr. Sinan Kaynak, CEO of Butterfly Mobilya, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the mutual benefits of enhanced trade relations. Dele Kelvin Oye Esq., President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), and Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), also highlighted the business growth opportunities these partnerships create. The event provided an atmosphere of continued collaboration between Nigeria and Turkey as attendees shared common business interests. His Excellency, Ambassador Hidayet Bayraktar, the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, applauded the initiative and emphasized the Embassy’s ongoing partnership with WTC Abuja. He noted that this collaboration has been instrumental in organizing various business-to-business (B2B) sessions and events aimed at promoting cross-border trade. This gathering marks another successful chapter in WTC Abuja’s mission to facilitate international trade and investment, reinforcing its commitment to promoting global business collaborations for the benefit of its members and the broader Nigerian business community. As WTC Abuja continues to strengthen ties with international partners, the future of Nigeria-Turkey trade relations looks promising, with new opportunities on the horizon. Read More

WTC Abuja Celebrates South Africa's 30th Freedom

June 19, 2024 - On May 10th, the World Trade Center (WTC) Abuja proudly joined the South Africa 30th Freedom Anniversary celebration at the distinguished Abuja Continental Hotel, hosted by the South Africa High Commission. This vibrant event, themed "South Africa's Freedom and Unbroken Diplomatic Relations," marked three decades of liberty and diplomatic achievements. WTC Abuja was honored to partake in this monumental occasion, gaining profound insights into South Africa's journey to freedom. The evening was an inspiring and reflective affair, featuring a keynote address by South African High Commissioner H.E. Mr. Thami Mseleku and other esteemed guests. The celebration provided an invaluable opportunity for WTC Abuja to expand its network and forge new connections within the trade, business, and diplomatic communities. WTC Abuja's presence at the event underscored its unwavering commitment to fostering international relationships and promoting global collaboration. We believe in the transformative power of partnerships and look forward to contributing to the success of businesses both locally and globally. Read More

MUSIAD REINFORCES TRADE TIES WITH WTC ABUJA

May 22, 2024 - WTC Abuja hosted a significant meeting with MUSIAD Nigeria on Friday, 26th April 2024, facilitating discussions and paving the way for potential business opportunities to strengthen bilateral trade relations between Turkey and Nigeria. Attendees explored avenues of collaboration and partnership, identifying specific business opportunities and strategies to enhance bilateral trade. Discussions focused on finding credible local partners for Turkish investors, business expansion in sectors like green energy, and participation in local events to increase visibility and integration, thereby promoting trade and investment opportunities within the Nigerian economy. Several challenges hindering smooth business operations were identified, and shared commitment and actionable plans were conveyed to overcome these challenges and create value for businesses. This meeting exemplified the power of dialogue and collaboration in driving sustainable economic development and underscores the importance of forging strong partnerships in the global business landscape. As both MUSIAD Nigeria and WTC Abuja embark on this journey of cooperation, the potential for mutual benefit and growth is boundless. Read More

WTC ABUJA EXPLORES BELGIAN-NIGERIA TRADE RELATIONS

May 22, 2024 - Stakeholders from Belgium and Nigeria came together at the Residence of the Ambassador of Belgium on Thursday, 25th April 2024, for the Belgian-Nigerian Cocktail Reception, following a precursor event in Lagos on April 22nd. This gathering aimed to strengthen bilateral trade ties and foster economic collaboration between the two nations. The reception served as a platform to highlight the potential of market access, inward investments, and outward opportunities for bilateral trade between Belgium and Nigeria. Notably, the Abuja Chambers of Commerce and Industry, a strategic trade partner to WTC Abuja, played a key role in driving Belgian-Nigeria economic collaboration, emphasizing our shared commitment to forging enduring business relationships and sustainable economic partnerships. Attendees were informed about an upcoming business conference scheduled to convene in Brussels in September 2024. With registration already underway, this conference promises invaluable opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and exploration of potential business ventures between Belgian and Nigerian enterprises. Further details will be disseminated within the next two weeks, amplifying anticipation and interest in this significant event. Representatives from diverse sectors, including Real Estate, Agriculture, and Trade, engaged in fruitful interactions, laying the groundwork for potential future collaborations and business facilitation between Belgium and Nigeria via the Trade Services offered at the World Trade Center Abuja. The Belgian-Nigerian Cocktail Reception stands as a testament to the commitment of both nations to explore and capitalize on economic opportunities. As the journey continues, the shared vision of prosperity and growth remains paramount, guiding efforts toward a future of mutual success and prosperity. Read More

WTC ABUJA’S MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT IN INDIA B2B

May 22, 2024 - The High Commission of India recently hosted a dynamic Business-to-Business (B2B) meeting on the 29th of April 2024, marking a significant milestone in fostering bilateral relations between Nigeria and India. Esteemed dignitaries, including Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Additional Secretary of the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, graced the event, showcasing promising prospects for economic collaboration between the two nations. In his address, Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia underscored the robust bilateral relations between Nigeria and India, emphasizing the shared vision for economic development in the year 2024. The meeting served as a platform to explore avenues for mutual growth and prosperity, reflecting the commitment of both nations to strengthen their economic ties. Delegates representing various sectors from the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) led the discourse, presenting a diverse array of industries ripe for partnership. From Technology and Agriculture to Financial Services, the event showcased the breadth of opportunities available for collaboration. Representatives from reputable Nigerian government agencies such as House of Representatives, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission also attended, enriching the dialogue and facilitating potential synergies. Active participation from various stakeholders, including World Trade Center Abuja and registered members, underscored our commitment to leveraging partnerships for sustainable growth and development. Members seized the opportunity to network with key sectors such as Investment, Oil and Gas, and Manufacturing, furthering their business growth. Looking ahead, participants were informed about upcoming B2B meetings scheduled in Lagos on the 30th of April and Ghana on the 2nd – 3rd of April 2024, signaling ongoing efforts to sustain the momentum of collaboration and engagement of the African economy. The High Commission of India B2B meeting served as a catalyst for exploring new horizons of economic cooperation between Nigeria and India. As both nations embark on their respective paths to development, such platforms continue to play a pivotal role in nurturing synergistic partnerships and driving inclusive growth. Read More

WTC ABUJA'S IMPACTFUL PRESENCE AT WTCA'S 2024 GBF

March 28, 2024 - World Trade Center Abuja (WTC Abuja) recently showcased its proactive role at the 54th World Trade Center Association (WTCA) Global Business Forum (GBF), hosted by the World Trade Center Bengaluru, India. Held from 3rd to 6th March 2024, the event was a convergence of minds focused on fostering partnerships and driving innovation in international trade under the theme "Empowering Progress through Innovation and Collaboration (EPIC)." Led by Mr. Ahmed Karim, Vice President of WTC Abuja, and Ms. Wuraola Onigbogi, Trade Services Manager, alongside two accompanying delegates, WTC Abuja actively engaged with global industry leaders and policymakers. Through dynamic panel discussions, strategic plenary sessions, and targeted networking events, the team explored potential collaborations and shared invaluable insights on emerging trade trends shaping the global economic landscape. The GBF provided a pivotal platform for WTC Abuja to demonstrate its capabilities and forge impactful partnerships. Notable highlights included fruitful discussions on collaborative ventures with World Trade Centers in Sharjah and Algiers. The signing of a significant Memorandum of Understanding with WTC Cairo exemplified WTC Abuja's commitment to expanding its global footprint and fostering mutually beneficial relationships. Furthermore, WTC Abuja delegates gained invaluable insights from knowledge transfer sessions and immersive facility tours, delving into best practices in facility management and security protocols. Their active participation also garnered significant visibility through esteemed features on WTCA TV interviews and CNBC Africa, showcasing WTC Abuja's comprehensive suite of trade-related services and igniting discussions on promising India-Africa investment prospects. Delegates from WTC Abuja expressed their utmost enthusiasm and appreciation for the enriching WTCA GBF experience in Bengaluru. Their resounding feedback, describing the event as "Amazing," "Awesome," "Exciting," "Friendly," and "Hospitable," underscores the event's pivotal role in fostering meaningful connections and driving impactful cross-border collaborations. Moreover, immersive cultural experiences organized by WTC Bengaluru, including visits to iconic Indian temples, scenic vineyards, and other captivating locales, not only enriched delegates' perspectives but also highlighted the pivotal role of cultural exchange in nurturing enduring international business relations. By leveraging dynamic platforms like the GBF, WTC Abuja not only expands its global network but also actively contributes to advancing international trade and collaboration agendas. The invaluable lessons learned and strategic connections forged at the GBF serve as catalytic drivers for WTC Abuja's continued growth, innovation, and influential contributions on the global trade stage, epitomizing the collaborative ethos envisioned by the WTCA and paving the way for a more interconnected and prosperous global trade landscape. Read More

WTC ABUJA AND CAIRO FORGE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

March 28, 2024 - In a significant move aimed at fostering economic cooperation and bolstering trade relations between Nigeria and Egypt, World Trade Center Abuja and World Trade Center Cairo have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the global stage during their participation at the recently concluded 54th World Trade Center Association (WTCA) Global Business Forum hosted by WTC Bengaluru, India. The MOU, signed amidst a gathering of international delegates and industry leaders, signifies a commitment to strengthen collaborations and promote mutual benefits between the two WTCs. At its core, the agreement seeks to enhance intra-African trade and facilitate bilateral trade activities between Nigeria and Egypt. With a shared vision of advancing trade promotion, trade education, and trade facilitation, the MOU lays a solid foundation for collaborative efforts between WTC Abuja and WTC Cairo. Through organized activities such as webinars, conferences, business-to-business (B2B) meetings, workshops, and trade missions, both entities aim to facilitate knowledge exchange, foster partnerships, and create business opportunities in their respective regions. The signing of the MOU highlights the strategic importance of leveraging the WTCA network to drive economic growth and development across Africa. By joining forces, WTC Abuja and WTC Cairo can tap into each other's expertise, resources, and networks to unlock new avenues for trade and investment within the continent. Nigeria and Egypt, with large economies, hold immense potential for deeper economic engagement and collaboration. By strengthening ties between WTC Abuja and WTC Cairo, the MOU paves the way for businesses in both countries to explore new markets, expand their reach, and capitalize on emerging opportunities in key sectors. Furthermore, the agreement aligns with broader efforts to promote regional integration and economic cooperation within Africa. By promoting intra-African trade, WTC Abuja and WTC Cairo contribute to the continent's economic transformation agenda, fostering sustainable development and prosperity for all. The strategic partnership between World Trade Center Abuja and World Trade Center Cairo heralds a new era of economic synergy and growth in Africa. This collaborative initiative not only signifies a shared commitment to advancing trade but also underscores the potential for Africa to become a powerhouse of economic innovation and prosperity on the global stage. Together, they set a compelling example of cross-border cooperation that transcends boundaries and fosters inclusive economic development in the region and beyond. Read More

Chronicles of WTC Abuja's Business Cocktail

February 21, 2024 - The World Trade Center Abuja recently hosted its much-anticipated End-of-Year Business and Networking Cocktail, a glittering affair that brought together a diverse array of dignitaries from various sectors. The event, held under the theme "Urban Elegance," not only showcased the sophistication and dynamism of Abuja's vibrant business community but also served as a unique platform for fostering meaningful connections. The distinguished gathering included representatives from sectors such as agriculture, tourism and hospitality, real estate, consultancy, technology, design and engineering, finance, and more. Diplomats added an international flair to the occasion, with notable attendees from the High Commission of Malaysia, British High Commission, India High Commission, MUSIAD, Consultants from IIUSA, UN Women, Abuja Chambers of Commerce, and Industry (ACCI), National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO), Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), DBLO Construction, Handy Capital, Periscope, Nigerian Private Sector Alliance (NIPSA), Netherlands-African Business Council (NABC), World Food Program, High Commission of India, among others. The evening was not only a celebration but also an opportunity for genuine connections within the World Trade Center Abuja community. Attendees engaged in meaningful conversations that transcended traditional business boundaries, laying the foundation for collaborations that promise to shape the business landscape in the coming year. Amidst the festivities, guests were treated to an exclusive networking platform, immersing themselves in the unique ambiance of the World Trade Center Abuja. Guided tours offered a firsthand experience of the Commercial Tower, providing a glimpse into the state-of-the-art facilities and impeccable services that define WTC Abuja. This immersive experience effectively communicated the brand's commitment to excellence in both real estate and trade services. The event drew a distinguished crowd, bringing together government officials, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and diplomats. The guest list was a testament to the rich art of Abuja's business landscape and served to elevate WTC Abuja's brand awareness. The World Trade Center emerged as a unique hub for business excellence, distinguishing itself in the competitive business landscape. As the night concluded, attendees left with a sense of solidarity and anticipation for the opportunities and collaborations that will unfold in the coming year. The WTC Abuja End-of-Year Business and Networking Cocktail event was undoubtedly a resounding success, marking a memorable chapter in the ongoing story of World Trade Center Abuja's impact on the local and international business scene. Read More