Stanbic IBTC Holdings has concluded the 2026 edition of the Nigeria Business Summit, with discussions centred on trade expansion and sustainable economic growth.
A statement from the bank on Tuesday stated that the two-day summit brought together industry leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders across multiple sectors to explore sustainable business practices, foster economic growth, and unlock global trade opportunities.
The event featured a keynote address by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, who emphasised the need for Nigeria to reposition itself as an export-driven economy.
“Our true potential lies in becoming a leading export economy,” Edun stated. “Increased participation in regional and global trade will be critical to diversifying foreign exchange earnings and driving inclusive growth.”
He noted that while Nigeria’s GDP growth has improved to approximately four per cent, it remains below the level required to significantly reduce poverty. According to him, the country’s economic strategy is shifting from stabilisation to growth acceleration, with trade expansion playing a central role.
Edun highlighted ongoing reforms, including improved foreign reserves, rising non-oil revenues, and renewed investor confidence, as indicators of a more resilient economy.
However, he stressed that enhancing trade competitiveness would require continued investment in infrastructure, logistics, and policy coordination. He also highlighted the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises, which account for over 90 per cent of businesses, noting that inclusive growth will depend on stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors.
With the theme, “Nigeria Means Business: Powering Sectors, Growing Sustainable SMEs & Unlocking Global Trade,” the summit addressed key sectors including agribusiness, renewable energy, trade and Africa–China banking, as well as ICT and telecommunications. Additional sessions covered family business sustainability, artificial intelligence, employee value banking, insurance, pension, and wealth management.
Participants engaged in presentations, panel discussions, and networking sessions, including the Africa Trade Barometer presentation and discussions on intra-African trade opportunities.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Chuma Nwokocha, represented by the organisation’s Chief Finance and Value Management Officer, Kunle Adedeji, emphasised the importance of collaboration and innovation.
“This summit has reinforced the importance of creating platforms where ideas can flourish, and businesses can grow sustainably. By working together, we can unlock new opportunities and drive economic advancement across Nigeria and the African continent,” he said.
Executive Director, Business & Commercial Banking, Remy Osuagwu, said discussions at the summit provided insights across sectors. “From our conversations on energy and healthcare to the deep dives into trade, Africa-China relations, and agribusiness, Day 1 has offered perspectives that were both insightful and practical. I believe we’re all leaving with a stronger understanding of the opportunities emerging across our industries,” Remy said.
He added that the level of engagement and contributions from participants reflected the value of the summit.
The Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank, Wole Adeniyi, represented by Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju, highlighted the focus on SMEs during the second day.
Bunmi said, “Today, we build on Day One’s momentum with conversations that are equally critical for the future – from the dynamics of family businesses to the growing influence of artificial intelligence; the evolution of insurance, and the emerging space of electric vehicle banking.”
She added, “Our goal on Day Two is simple: to explore what’s next. To understand how these developments will shape our businesses and how we can position ourselves ahead of the curve.”
Stanbic IBTC said the Nigeria Business Summit reflects its commitment to empowering businesses, strengthening key sectors, and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global economy.
