Cross River State has clinched the hosting rights for the 2026 edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), officially positioning Calabar as the continent’s next hub for trade, culture, and investment.
The announcement came in Algiers, Algeria, where Governor Bassey Edet Otu signed the host rights during the 5th Sub-Sovereign Business Engagement, held on the sidelines of IATF 2025.
Calling the milestone a defining moment for Nigeria and Africa at large, Governor Otu said:
“This is a profound honour for our state and a defining moment for Africa’s sub-sovereign governments. Cross River is ready to lead Africa into a new era of trade and cooperation, where our local power fuels global impact.”
He assured that the 2026 edition in Calabar would highlight the continent’s ingenuity, heritage, and innovation:
“In Calabar, you will encounter a city that is second to none in hospitality, culture, and tourism. We will deliver a trade fair that Africa will never forget.”
Governor Otu also praised Afrexim Bank for its vision in advancing intra-African trade, especially its support for creative industries, which he described as “Africa’s new goldmine.” He noted that music, film, art, and storytelling have become economic assets with global reach.
Stressing the critical role of sub-sovereign governments, the governor urged regional leaders to step up in shaping Africa’s future:
“It is at this level that real impact is felt, and it is at this level that we can unlock the full promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area.”
He pledged that Cross River would rise to the challenge of hosting such a monumental event by preparing infrastructure, mobilizing the private sector, and harnessing the energy of its people.
Analysts have hailed Calabar’s selection as both a diplomatic and economic breakthrough, predicting billions in trade volumes, job creation, and renewed investor confidence. The city’s historic role as a commercial hub and its reputation for world-class hospitality reportedly weighed in its favour.
Governor Otu closed with a unifying message:
“This is bigger than Cross River. This is about Africa telling its story, trading with itself, and building prosperity from within. The world is coming to Calabar in 2026 — and we are ready to welcome them with open arms.”
