Success of IATF 2025, a demonstration of power of African unity – Obasanjo

Nigeria’s former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has described the just concluded Intra African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025 as not just a trade fair but “a testament to our shared vision for a more integrated and prosperous Africa,” urging that the momentum of the hugely successful Fair should be carried forward.

Chief Obasanjo said this on September 10, 2025, in his capacity as Chairman of the IATF Advisory Council at the closing ceremony of the Fair that held in Algiers, Algeria, and urged thus: “Let us continue to build on the connections made, to explore new opportunities and to work together to realise the full potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”

The former Nigerian leader, who was full of praise for the Algerian President, Abdelmadjid Tebboune and the government and people of Algeria; for Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and staff of the institution; for the AfCFTA Secretariat, the African Union Commission, and for all others who played diverse roles in the success of IATF 2025, insisted that the event was “a demonstration of the power of Africa when we work in unison towards a common goal.” He prayed that such unity of action should long continue.

He noted that they surpassed their own expectations and targets, pointing out that how well the Fair turned out was a consequence of the outstanding dedication, teamwork, professionalism and tireless hard work of all concerned.

The elder statesman insisted that: “The energy and enthusiasm over this last week have been truly inspiring. We have celebrated the richness of our diverse cultures and the boundless potential of African ingenuity,” restating that “It has been a week of vibrant exchanges, dynamic partnerships, and a shared vision for a prosperous Africa. From the bustling exhibition halls to the insightful panel discussions, IATF2025 has exceeded all expectations and targets we had set for ourselves.”

He also noted that: “We have seen deals forged, partnerships strengthened, and the seeds of the future prosperity sown,” stressing that the unrelenting efforts invested “in driving the African integration agenda manifested in the aisles and halls of this exhibition.”

Chief Obasanjo, prayed that the spirit of collaboration which was evident between all those who played major roles in putting together the Fair, should “continue to flourish across our great continent,” specially congratulated the co-convenors – Afreximbank, AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU Commission, and assured Professor Oramah that “you can indeed be proud of the legacy you leave.”