The 2026 Invest Nigeria Conference & Expo has commenced in Lagos, bringing together investors, business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, diplomats and other key stakeholders to explore opportunities for investment, collaboration and sustainable economic growth.
The conference, organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), provides a platform for participants to engage in meaningful discussions, build strategic partnerships, network and explore emerging business opportunities.
City Business News reports that the event opened with a welcome address by the President and Chairman of Council, LCCI, Engr. Leye Kupoluyi.
Other speakers at the opening session included Mr. Kudawashe Matereke, Director, Regional Operations, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank); Mr. Olivier Buyoya, Division Director, West Africa, International Finance Corporation (IFC); and Mr. Mairiga Aliyu Katuka, Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The programme also featured remarks from the Ambassadors of Brazil, Poland, Côte d’Ivoire and Thailand, as well as the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Prof. Eghosa Osaghae.
A major feature of the conference was a presentation by Audu Maikori, Co-founder of Chocolate City Group, titled “Creative and Arts: Exporting Nigeria’s Art and Culture in the 21st Century.”
Maikori highlighted the enormous potential of Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries to strengthen the country’s global presence, generate economic opportunities and contribute to export growth.
Another major highlight was the keynote address delivered on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole.
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was also represented at the event by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada Ambrose-Medebem, who delivered the Governor’s address.
The first day concluded with Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings and a private luncheon with diplomats and heads of delegation, providing further opportunities for strategic engagements, partnerships and investment discussions.
The conference continues with stakeholders expected to deepen conversations around investment, strengthen connections and identify practical opportunities capable of supporting Nigeria’s sustainable economic growth.
