AltBank Champions Export Growth, Innovation at NITF 2025
By Olusegun Obisanya
The Alternative Bank (AltBank) has reaffirmed its commitment to driving Nigeria’s export ambition with bespoke non-interest financing solutions targeting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The pledge, according to a statement from the financial institution, was made at the ongoing Nigeria International Trade Fair (NITF) 2025, underscores the Bank’s expanding role in strengthening national trade competitiveness and accelerating economic growth across critical sectors.
This year’s fair is holding at a defining moment for the country’s trade profile. Nigeria’s merchandise trade volume surged to ₦38 trillion in 2025, signalling renewed momentum in export-led expansion. Non-oil exports—especially in agriculture, fertilisers and agro-processing—recorded significant growth, opening fresh opportunities in markets across Asia and Europe.
AltBank, one of the emerging powerhouses in non-interest finance, is positioning itself as a key catalyst in this upward trajectory. Through its value-chain financing and ethical banking models, the Bank is already supporting major agro-allied players such as JohnVents, helping them unlock sizable export flows and reinforcing Nigeria’s capacity to compete globally.
Speaking on the sidelines of the fair, Korede Demola-Adeniyi, Executive Director, South at The Alternative Bank, emphasised the significance of trade platforms in national development.
“Since inception, this fair has always represented a clear truth: when Nigeria trades, Nigeria grows. And when our cities open their doors to innovators and investors, prosperity follows.
“At The Alternative Bank, we believe finance should empower people. Through inclusive banking, we aim to unlock new wealth across communities. We are ready to support businesses that want to advance Nigeria’s trade potential—without hidden fees or the burden of debt,” she said.
Her remarks aligned with the federal government’s position on the pivotal role of MSMEs in national transformation. Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, praised the resilience and innovation of MSMEs, describing them as the backbone of economic expansion.
“This trade fair complex was purpose-built to encourage trade and intra-African commerce. The ministry is here in full force to support this revival and restore the fair to its former glory. We urge entrepreneurs to seize the opportunities presented here to scale their businesses and explore new markets.”
Vera Ndanusa, Executive Director and CEO of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, noted that the fair is undergoing reforms to reflect global technological advancements, particularly in digital trade and industry.
“Our goal is straightforward yet profound: to create and sustain an environment where trade thrives, businesses can scale, and investments can flow easily. We are making participation more affordable for SMEs, women-led enterprises and young entrepreneurs because they are central to Nigeria’s commercial future,” she remarked.
As Nigeria moves toward a more diversified and export-oriented economy, AltBank is deepening its footprint by empowering farmers and manufacturers to transition from raw commodity sales to value-added production. The Bank is enabling access to modern equipment, clean energy solutions and essential trade-finance instruments that help businesses secure international deals.
With its innovative financial models and growing support network for export-driven SMEs, The Alternative Bank is positioning itself as a pivotal force in shaping the next chapter of Nigeria’s trade evolution.