Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, will lead the state’s delegation to the 2025 Fidelity Nigeria International Trade and Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, USA. Fidelity Bank Plc made the announcement in a press release, describing the governor’s participation as a major step toward positioning Lagos as a global hub for trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
Lagos to Showcase Africa’s Largest Economy
Fidelity Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, confirmed that Governor Sanwo-Olu will use the FNITCC platform to highlight Lagos State’s economic strengths. With a GDP larger than many African nations, Lagos remains the commercial nerve center of Nigeria and a gateway to continental markets.
In addition, the governor will explore opportunities for sister city partnerships with Atlanta and Georgia State. These partnerships are expected to boost collaboration in infrastructure, tourism, innovation, and creative industries.
Speaking on the significance of the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Lagos as a city of enterprise and creativity. “At FNITCC Atlanta, we will showcase Lagos as Africa’s largest economy while building bridges of trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Our aim is to position Lagos as a truly global city where innovation thrives and prosperity is shared,” he said.
FNITCC Atlanta: A Global Business Platform
The 2025 edition of FNITCC will run from September 18 to 20 in Atlanta, Georgia, in collaboration with AFRICON, the global forum for African innovators and leaders. The conference is expected to draw over 3,000 participants, including international investors, trade agencies, exporters, and diaspora professionals.
Moreover, organisers project that business and trade deals worth more than US$500 million will be facilitated during the three-day event. Sessions will focus on improving Nigeria’s export profile, expanding creative industry opportunities, and linking African entrepreneurs with US markets.
Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank, explained the bank’s role in promoting Nigerian businesses on the global stage. “As Africa’s largest economy, Lagos is strategically positioned to benefit from the opportunities FNITCC Atlanta creates. Our mission remains clear: to help individuals grow, businesses thrive, and economies prosper. Hosting Lagos State at this global event reinforces that vision,” she noted.
Distinguished Speakers and Expert Panels
The conference will feature a lineup of respected industry leaders and policymakers. Confirmed speakers include:
Mustafa Chike-Obi – Chairman, Fidelity Bank Plc
Aishah Ahmad – Global Finance Leader and former CBN Deputy Governor
Abba Bello – Managing Director, Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM)
Olasunkanmi Owoyemi – Group Managing Director and CEO, Sunbeth Global Concepts Nigeria Ltd
In addition to keynote speeches, participants will benefit from workshops, seminars, and policy dialogues. These will address topics such as global financing, diaspora investment, sustainable exports, and creative economy opportunities.
Opportunities for Trade and Creative Industries
FNITCC Atlanta will also feature dedicated deal rooms for private negotiations, an exhibition of African products and services, and matchmaking sessions connecting Nigerian entrepreneurs with American buyers and investors.
Significantly, sectors on display will include:
Agriculture and agribusiness
Extractive industries
Fashion and textiles
Film, music, and other creative sectors
Professional services and technology solutions
The exhibition will provide Nigerian businesses, especially SMEs, with greater access to US markets. Furthermore, it will create opportunities for diaspora professionals to invest back home. Interested participants can register through the official portal at www.fidelitybank.ng/fnitcc.
Fidelity Bank’s Role in Driving Economic Growth
Fidelity Bank Plc has positioned itself as a strong supporter of Nigeria’s economic growth, with over 9.1 million customers and operations in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. The bank operates 251 business offices alongside innovative digital platforms, ensuring accessibility for individuals and businesses.
Over the years, the bank has received numerous awards in recognition of its service delivery, innovation, and support for small and medium-scale enterprises. Notable recognitions include:
Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award (2024) – BusinessDay BAFI Awards
Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application (2024) – Global Business Outlook
Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider (2024) – Global Brands Magazine
Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria (2024) – Euromoney Awards for Excellence
Export Financing Bank of the Year (2024) – BAFI Awards
Lagos, Fidelity Bank, and the Global Marketplace
The partnership between Lagos State and Fidelity Bank at FNITCC Atlanta represents a strategic push to strengthen Nigeria’s global presence. For Lagos, the event offers a platform to deepen international partnerships, attract investments, and showcase the state’s potential beyond Africa.
Meanwhile, for Fidelity Bank, the conference underlines its role as a bridge between Nigerian entrepreneurs and global investors.
As Governor Sanwo-Olu leads the Lagos delegation, expectations remain high that the state will secure new opportunities for trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Therefore, the 2025 FNITCC Atlanta is not only a conference but also a catalyst for positioning Lagos as a true global player in commerce and creativity.
