Lagos: The inaugural Ghana International Expo and Investment Forum (GIEIF 2025), a landmark initiative by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Judimedia Consult, has ended in Lagos, Nigeria. The four-day event brought together business leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators from across West Africa and beyond to explore trade, tourism, and investment opportunities, while strengthening regional cooperation.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event was themed 'Unlocking investment potential through Intra-African trade and tourism.' Mrs. Maame Efua Huodjeto, Chief Executive Officer of GTA, described the forum as a strategic milestone in Ghana's push to deepen economic integration and position itself as a regional hub for commerce and responsible tourism. She emphasized the importance of hosting the event in Lagos, highlighting Ghana's commitment to strengthening economic and cultural ties between the nations.
The forum featured an international exhibition showcasing products and services from Ghanaian and West African enterprises, alongside a high-level investment forum. This included two days of panel discussions with ministers, CEOs, policy experts, and global investors. Ms. Huodjeto stated that the event served as a 'strategic manifestation' of her vision to position Ghana as a holistic platform for innovation, commerce, and connection.
Discussions and exhibitions focused on bankable opportunities across key sectors, including Agribusiness, Technology, Tourism, Energy, and Manufacturing. Special attention was given to Ghana and Nigeria's roles as economic drivers within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), offering access to a combined market of over 1.3 billion people.
A major cultural highlight was the 'Culture Exchange Explosion,' celebrating the rich heritage and traditions of Ghana and Nigeria through music, cuisine, fashion, and performance. This created an immersive networking environment for participants.
Ms. Huodjeto expressed appreciation to the governments and ministries of both Ghana and Nigeria, and all stakeholders who contributed to the event's success. She emphasized the importance of carrying the momentum forward by building partnerships, investments, and innovations that will drive a shared future.
The GIEIF 2025 aimed to connect entrepreneurs, producers, and investors, promoting Ghana's indigenous products, services, and opportunities to an international audience. Supporting institutions included Ghana's Ministry of Trade, Ghana Enterprises Agency, Ghana Export Promotion Authority, Diaspora Affairs, Tour Operators Union of Ghana, Kasapreko Co. Ltd., and Africa World Airlines. Nigerian partners such as the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Commerce, NASSME, NASSI, NAFDAC, and representatives from Africa Movie Awards also played key roles.
