West Africa is poised to transform its rising trade gains into tangible industrial growth at the upcoming West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing and Trade Summit (West Africa IMT 2026). Scheduled for March 3–5 in Lagos, the summit will highlight the region’s growing intra-African trade and renewed push for industrial expansion, offering a platform for policymakers, investors, and manufacturers to explore opportunities for sustainable growth.
Recent data underscores the potential for industrial development in the region. According to the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria’s exports to African markets rose by 14% to N4.82 trillion, with over 60% destined for West Africa. In Ghana, pilot industrial zones under the 24-hour economy policy, such as the Tema light-manufacturing belt, have already reported increased output and night-shift employment, signaling early success in boosting regional manufacturing capacity.
Organisers of West Africa IMT 2026 emphasize that while trade growth presents opportunities, it also creates pressure to convert these gains into lasting industrial capacity, job creation, and investment. Endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and organised by dmg Nigeria Events, the summit is designed to explore how coordinated policy action can translate trade momentum into measurable industrial outcomes.
Speaking on the summit’s significance, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, John Enoh, said, “Industrial growth is not just an economic imperative; it is the foundation for job creation, skills development, and sustainable prosperity.” He noted that the event aligns with Nigeria’s industrial strategy and the broader goal of strengthening regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The three-day summit will bring together stakeholders from across West Africa and beyond to discuss expanding industrial capacity, improving trade facilitation, and mobilising long-term financing for value-added production. Wemimo Oyelana, portfolio director for Africa at dmg Events, highlighted the summit’s action-oriented focus: “The goal is to align policy, private sector capability, and capital to deliver real industrial capacity, stronger value chains, and measurable economic impact for West Africa.”
source: The Guardian