Zenith Bank Plc is set to host its 10th International Trade Seminar on August 27, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos, with the theme “Unlocking Nigeria’s Non-Oil Export Potential: Strategies for Sustainable Growth.” The event aims to address critical challenges and opportunities in the non-oil export sector, which is seen as a key driver for diversifying Nigeria’s economy away from oil dependency.
Seminar Focus on Export Diversification
According to a statement from Zenith Bank, the seminar will bring together industry experts, policymakers, and business leaders to discuss practical strategies for expanding Nigeria’s non-oil export base. The bank emphasized that the event is part of its commitment to supporting the federal government’s economic diversification agenda, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and solid minerals sectors.
“The seminar will provide a platform for stakeholders to explore innovative approaches to enhancing export competitiveness, improving access to international markets, and leveraging trade finance instruments,” the bank said. Participants will also examine regulatory frameworks and infrastructure gaps that currently hinder export growth.
Key Speakers and Panel Sessions
The seminar will feature a keynote address by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, who is expected to outline government initiatives aimed at boosting non-oil exports. Other confirmed speakers include the Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Ezra Yakusak, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), Mr. Abba Bello.
Panel discussions will cover topics such as “Financing Non-Oil Exports: The Role of Banks and Development Finance Institutions,” “Logistics and Supply Chain Optimization for Exporters,” and “Leveraging Technology for Export Market Access.” Zenith Bank’s Group Managing Director, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, will deliver the opening remarks, highlighting the bank’s track record in trade finance.
Impact on Nigeria’s Export Sector
Nigeria’s non-oil exports have shown modest growth in recent years, with the NEPC reporting that the sector contributed about $4.5 billion in foreign exchange earnings in 2025. However, stakeholders argue that this figure remains far below the country’s potential, given its vast agricultural and mineral resources. The seminar is expected to produce actionable recommendations for both the private sector and government agencies.
Zenith Bank has a history of hosting this annual seminar, which has grown into a key event for the trade community. The 10th edition underscores the bank’s long-term commitment to fostering export-led growth, particularly as Nigeria seeks to reduce its reliance on crude oil revenues amid global energy transition pressures.
The event will conclude with a networking session for participants, providing opportunities for exporters to connect with financiers, logistics providers, and regulatory bodies. Zenith Bank reiterated that the seminar aligns with its broader strategy to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the export value chain.
