The Alternative Bank has renewed its commitment to boosting Nigeria’s export trade by offering non-interest financing solutions to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. The bank made this pledge during the ongoing Nigeria International Trade Fair 2025, a major event taking place at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex along the Lagos–Badagry Expressway. The fair, which returned to its historic home this November, will run until November 30.
The Nigeria International Trade Fair 2025 is taking place at a very important period for the country. Nigeria’s merchandise trade volume has risen sharply in recent months, showing fresh momentum in export-led growth. Non-oil exports, especially in agricultural produce, fertilisers and agro-processing, have also recorded notable improvement. These gains are opening new opportunities for Nigerian exporters in major markets across Asia and Europe.
The Alternative Bank said it wants to play a key role in this progress. Through its value-chain financing and ethical banking model, the bank is already supporting agro-allied companies such as JohnVents. The support is helping them expand their export capacity and strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global market.
Speaking at the fair, the Executive Director, South, at The Alternative Bank, Korede Demola-Adeniyi, explained the importance of trade platforms like the Lagos fair in national development. She noted that the event has consistently shown that when Nigeria trades, economic growth follows. She stressed that when Nigerian cities open their doors to investors and innovators, prosperity spreads across communities.
Demola-Adeniyi added that the bank’s goal is to ensure finance brings empowerment rather than pressure. She said The Alternative Bank remains committed to supporting businesses that want to grow Nigeria’s trade potential without hidden charges or debt burdens. She explained that the lender’s inclusive banking strategy is designed to help individuals and businesses unlock new opportunities and generate wealth.
Her comments agreed with the Federal Government’s position on the importance of MSMEs to national growth. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, while speaking at the opening of the trade fair, praised Nigerian MSMEs for their resilience and creativity. She described them as the backbone of the country’s economic expansion.
Oduwole reminded participants that the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex was originally designed to promote trade and support commerce across Africa. She said the ministry is committed to restoring the fair to its original status as a major regional trade hub. She encouraged entrepreneurs to make use of the opportunities provided at the fair to scale up their businesses and explore international markets.
Also speaking, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, Vera Ndanusa, said the fair is undergoing reforms to reflect technological changes shaping global trade. According to her, the focus is on digital trade, industrial innovation and creating an enabling environment for businesses to flourish.
Ndanusa said the board is making participation easier and more affordable for SMEs, women-led businesses and young entrepreneurs. She explained that these groups are central to the country’s long-term development and future commercial success.
As Nigeria continues its shift towards a more diversified and export-driven economy, The Alternative Bank is expanding its support for farmers, manufacturers and small businesses. The bank is helping them move from selling raw commodities to processing and value-added production that can bring higher earnings. It is also providing access to clean energy solutions, modern equipment and essential trade finance tools needed to secure international contracts.
With its growing support system for export-focused businesses, The Alternative Bank says it aims to become a central force in Nigeria’s trade evolution. The lender believes that its ethical financial models and partnerships with small and medium-scale players will help shape the country’s next phase of economic growth.
