The Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture Sierra Leone Chapter has unveiled plans for the maiden Nigeria Sierra Leone Trade Fair 2026, a major private sector initiative aimed at strengthening trade, investment and business partnerships between the two countries.

The unveiling and press conference took place on Wednesday 1 July 2026 at the Freetown City Council Hall ahead of the trade fair, which will run from 27 July to 9 August at the Miatta Conference Centre in Freetown.

The exhibition will bring together manufacturers, investors, importers, exporters, entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises from Nigeria and Sierra Leone. Products and services from sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, technology, healthcare, fashion, consumer goods, construction materials and automotive industries will be showcased.

Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, Barrister Hanson Agbai Abosi, said the organisation was established under the auspices of the Nigerian High Commission to promote business cooperation between the two countries and support investors seeking opportunities in either market.

He said the trade fair would provide a platform for businesses to network, form partnerships, access new markets and attract investment.

Hanson Agbai Abosi described Sierra Leone as more than a domestic market, noting that its position within the Mano River Union provides access to Guinea and Liberia, making it an attractive gateway for regional trade.

He said the Chamber would support businesses through mentorship, market guidance, regulatory assistance and networking opportunities, particularly for small and medium enterprises.

According to him, the Chamber aims to promote two way trade by helping Sierra Leonean businesses access the Nigerian market while encouraging Nigerian investors to explore opportunities in Sierra Leone.

Hanson Agbai Abosi added that exhibitors would benefit from business support services, market access opportunities and connections with financial and export promotion institutions.

He disclosed that a large number of exhibition spaces had already been reserved and urged interested businesses to register early.

Describing the initiative as a private sector driven programme, Hanson Agbai Abosi said it was designed to create practical business opportunities capable of generating investment, jobs and economic growth in both countries.

Chairman of the Trade Fair organizing Committee, Remi Okafor, said the event was intended to translate the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Sierra Leone into stronger economic cooperation.

He noted that although political relations between the two countries had remained strong for decades, greater emphasis was now needed on trade and investment.

Remi Okafor said Sierra Leone's private sector had grown significantly in recent years and is increasingly positioned to compete in regional markets.

He stated that the trade fair would connect local businesses with Nigerian manufacturers and investors while providing opportunities to access one of Africa's largest economies.

He also encouraged Sierra Leonean entrepreneurs to join the Chamber, saying members would receive support on product development, quality standards, packaging and market entry requirements.

Remi Okafor also urged local businesses to pursue opportunities beyond Sierra Leone and take advantage of regional markets across West Africa.

He further revealed how discussions with Nigerian manufacturers had generated strong interest in the trade fair after many recognized Sierra Leone's strategic importance as a gateway to the wider Mano River Union market.

According to him, several Nigerian companies have already indicated their willingness to participate in the exhibition and explore investment opportunities in Sierra Leone.

The trade fair will also feature business networking sessions, product demonstrations, business to business meetings and other promotional activities for visitors.

Organisers expressed confidence that the event would become an annual platform for strengthening trade, investment and private sector collaboration between Nigeria and Sierra Leone while creating new opportunities for businesses across the region. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/nigeria-sierra-leone-set-for-landmark-trade-fair-to-boost-investment-and-regional-commerce/