By Ihechi Enyinnaya
The Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with Afreximbank, has signed a Host Country Agreement for the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM), which will take place in Abuja, Nigeria, from June 23 to 28, 2025.
The Afreximbank Annual Meetings are one of the most anticipated events on the African continent, featuring high-level policy discussions, presentations, and side events focused on issues crucial to Africa’s socio-economic development. The meetings also provide networking opportunities that promote trade and investment integration.
The 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings are expected to be the largest gathering in the Bank’s history, bringing together over 6,000 delegates, including Heads of State, government officials, business leaders, decision-makers, academics, and experts from Africa, the Caribbean (CARICOM region), and beyond.
H.E. Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, expressed Nigeria’s pride in hosting the 2025 meetings. He highlighted the event’s importance as a platform to discuss trade financing, economic growth, and investment opportunities across the continent. He stated, “This event reinforces 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 appreciation for Nigeria’s role in hosting the event. He acknowledged Nigeria as a key partner and highlighted its consistent support for Afreximbank. “Nigeria has been instrumental in the Bank’s success, responding positively to capital calls, removing regulatory barriers, and rallying continental support,” he said.
Prof. Oramah also emphasized the importance of the event’s theme, “Building the Future on Decades of Resilience,” reflecting on the progress made over the past three decades and the steps needed to navigate a complex global landscape. He noted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a vital opportunity for sustainable economic transformation.
Looking ahead, Prof. Oramah stated, “The Afreximbank Annual Meetings will provide a platform to reflect on our achievements, celebrate contributions, and chart a path forward to reinforce Africa’s economic independence and global influence.” He expressed eagerness to welcome stakeholders from across Africa and around the world to Abuja.
Afreximbank’s strong partnership with Nigeria has played a crucial role in the Bank’s impact across Africa, with Nigeria being the largest recipient of trade and development finance from the institution. Nigeria has attracted approximately US$52 billion in disbursements and is benefiting from flagship projects like the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) and the African Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC).
This announcement comes after the successful 2024 Afreximbank Annual Meetings held in Nassau, The Bahamas, attended by over 4,000 delegates, including Heads of State, government ministers, dignitaries, and experts.