Nigeria to Host 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings in Abuja
…Expected to Draw 6,000 Delegates
By Patience Ikpeme
Nigeria has officially cemented its role as host for the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM), scheduled to take place in Abuja from June 23-28, 2025. The Host Country Agreement was formally signed by representatives of the Nigerian government and Afreximbank, paving the way for what is anticipated to be the largest gathering of “Global Africa” in the bank’s history.
The Afreximbank Annual Meetings are a highlight on the African continent’s calendar, bringing together key stakeholders for high-level policy discussions, presentations, and side events focused on critical issues related to Africa’s socio-economic development. The meetings also provide invaluable business networking opportunities, fostering integration through trade and investment.
The 2025 Abuja meetings are projected to attract over 6,000 delegates, a diverse group including Heads of State, government officials, industry leaders, business professionals, policymakers, academics, and experts from across Africa, the CARICOM region, and the globe.
Mr. Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, emphasized the significance of the agreement, highlighting Nigeria’s strong partnership with Afreximbank and the nation’s commitment to promoting trade and economic growth across Africa and beyond. “Nigeria is honoured 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,” Edun stated. “This event is a testament to our commitment to strengthening Africa’s financial sector and positioning Nigeria as a hub for economic transformation.”
Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian government for accepting the hosting responsibility. He emphasized the shared commitment to accelerating Africa’s economic growth and development. “We greatly appreciate the Federal Government of Nigeria’s acceptance to host the 2025 Afreximbank Annual Meetings, which demonstrates our united determination to accelerating Africa’s economic growth and development,” Oramah said.
Oramah lauded Nigeria’s consistent support for Afreximbank, citing the country’s positive responses to capital calls, significant equity contributions even during challenging economic times, removal of regulatory obstacles, and leadership in rallying continental support. He noted that this unwavering support has been the primary driver of the Bank’s strong continental impact.
He also emphasized the reciprocal benefits for Nigeria, noting that as the largest recipient of the Bank’s trade and development finance, Nigeria has attracted cumulative disbursements of approximately US$52 billion. He also highlighted several flagship projects in Nigeria, including the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE), African Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC), and Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC).
The theme for the 2025 meetings, “Building the Future on Decades of Resilience,” reflects the progress made over the past three decades and the crucial steps needed to navigate the increasingly complex global landscape, Oramah explained. He underscored the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in driving sustainable economic transformation and improving living standards across the continent. “Afreximbank Annual Meetings will provide a platform to reflect on our journey, celebrate contributions, and chart a path forward that reinforces our continent’s economic independence and global influence,” he said.
Oramah expressed his anticipation for welcoming stakeholders from Africa and around the world to Abuja for this prestigious event. He noted that the 2025 meetings follow the highly successful 2024 AAM in Nassau, The Bahamas, which drew over 4,000 delegates, including more than 20 Heads of State.
Afreximbank’s connection to Nigeria runs deep, with the bank’s first General Meeting of shareholders held in Abuja in October 1993. Today, Nigeria stands as Afreximbank’s second-largest shareholder, solidifying the enduring partnership between the two.
