From June 25 to 28, 2025, Abuja played host to the largest gathering in Afreximbank’s history, bringing together over 6,000 delegates for the 32nd Annual Meetings under the theme, “Building the Future on Decades of Resilience.” The event drew Heads of State, finance ministers, central bank governors, business leaders, and policymakers from across Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond.
In a time marked by tightening global credit, geopolitical instability, and dwindling foreign aid, Afreximbank’s leadership made it clear: Africa must now look inward, deepen collaboration, and take full ownership of its economic destiny.
Nigeria’s Central Bank Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, praised Afreximbank’s vital role during recent shocks, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, calling for “long-term planning and strong institutions” to build lasting resilience. Echoing that message, Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President, urged African nations to “harmonise our strength” and advance the continent’s autonomy through deliberate, shared action.
A Platform for Strategy and Trade
Across several sessions, delegates explored how to bolster regional trade, industrial growth, and financial stability, with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) taking center stage. PAPSS, in particular, was showcased as a solution to reduce Africa’s reliance on external currencies for intra-African trade, enabling faster, cheaper cross-border payments.
The meetings also served as a deal-making platform, with Afreximbank setting an ambitious agenda to mobilize billions of dollars in trade and investment agreements across sectors such as energy, manufacturing, logistics, and digital finance.
Nigeria’s Pivotal Role and a New Era of Leadership
Nigeria reaffirmed its standing as Afreximbank’s top disbursement destination, with US$52 billion in cumulative funding, reflecting its importance as a hub for trade and industrial activity on the continent.
The event was also the stage for a leadership transition, as Dr. George Elombi was named the next President of Afreximbank, ushering in a new chapter of strategic continuity. Elombi, a long-time executive at the bank, is expected to push forward key initiatives focused on industrialisation, trade facilitation, and financial innovation.
Africa-Caribbean Connection Grows Stronger
A key highlight was the increased presence of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), pointing to the growing bridge between Africa and its diaspora. Sessions emphasized the importance of trade cooperation, investment flows, and cultural exchange between Africa and Caribbean nations, positioning them as key partners in a shared economic future.
Among the other flagship unveilings were the African Medical Centre of Excellence, and the African Trade Report 2025, both aimed at advancing healthcare systems and informing policy and investment decisions across the continent.
