Fidelity Bank’s FNITCC Platform Pushes Nigeria’s Non-Oil Export Agenda to Global Heights

Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, MD/CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc

Nigeria’s long-standing reliance on crude oil revenues has often left its economy vulnerable to global shocks. But today, a growing diversification push—anchored by both government policies and private sector initiatives—is reshaping that narrative. At the forefront of this shift is Fidelity Bank Plc, which has created a platform that is steadily becoming a global showcase for Nigeria’s non-oil potential: the Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC).

A Platform for a New Economic Future

FNITCC is not just a trade fair. It is a carefully designed ecosystem that connects Nigerian exporters to global buyers, investors, and diaspora communities while ensuring that products are upgraded to meet international standards.

Covering sectors from agriculture and consumer goods to fintech, fashion, and creative industries, FNITCC reflects Fidelity’s conviction that Nigeria’s competitiveness lies in value addition and innovation, not just raw commodity exports.

This aligns seamlessly with government priorities such as the Nigerian Export Promotion Council’s campaigns and recent directives encouraging value-added exports—for example, requiring refined shea butter to be packaged locally before export.

From London to Houston: Proof of Concept

Since its debut in London in 2022, FNITCC has demonstrated measurable results. The maiden event attracted over 100 exhibitors, 90 speakers, and more than 1,000 daily attendees—unlocking an estimated $250 million in trade and investment deals.

In Houston in 2023, the platform scaled further, hosting 160 businesses across Nigeria and the U.S. The standout outcome was a $40 million pre-export finance facility for JohnVents Industries, arranged by Afreximbank with Fidelity Bank as the local agent. This deal cemented FNITCC’s reputation as more than a networking forum—it is a financing pipeline that delivers tangible outcomes for exporters.

Atlanta 2025: A Strategic Leap

This year, from September 18–20, 2025, FNITCC will debut in Atlanta, Georgia, a city with a vibrant Nigerian diaspora and one of the fastest-growing hubs for Black entrepreneurship in the U.S.

By partnering with Amplify Africa, organizers of AFRICON, Fidelity Bank aims to ensure Nigerian businesses gain exposure to U.S. buyers, investors, and cultural networks that can sustain long-term trade flows.

“As part of our commitment to developing platforms that promote economic growth, creativity, and sustainable trade both within Nigeria and internationally, we are pleased to announce the third edition of FNITCC,” said Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc.

Consolidating Impact

Across its first two editions, FNITCC generated a consolidated $500 million deal pipeline, proving that private-sector-led platforms can complement government diversification policies with real results.

The Atlanta edition is expected to host over 3,000 participants, featuring:

• B2B matchmaking between exporters and global buyers.
• Diaspora investment roundtables to channel capital from Nigerians abroad.
• Policy dialogues involving regulators and trade experts.
• Sector-focused workshops spanning agriculture, beauty, fashion, creative services, and energy transition minerals.

Why It Matters

The push comes at a time when Nigeria urgently needs stable sources of foreign exchange. With global energy markets shifting away from fossil fuels, the long-term survival of the economy depends on building new, resilient export pillars.

FNITCC directly responds to this need by giving exporters global visibility, connecting them to financiers, and integrating Nigeria into global value chains. By also spotlighting the creative economy, the platform strengthens Nigeria’s cultural footprint as a growing source of foreign exchange.

Key Takeaways from FNITCC

• London 2022: Over 100 exhibitors, 90 speakers, 1,000+ daily attendees, and $250 million in trade and investment deals.
• Houston 2023: 160 Nigerian and U.S. businesses, with a landmark $40 million cocoa export finance facility for JohnVents Industries.
• Impact to Date: More than $500 million in deal pipeline generated within two years.
• Atlanta 2025: Expected attendance of 3,000+ participants, with B2B sessions, diaspora roundtables, and cultural showcases.
• Broader Vision: FNITCC integrates trade, finance, and culture, positioning Nigeria for a future beyond oil while amplifying its creative industries on the world stage.

Looking Ahead

From London to Houston and now Atlanta, FNITCC has matured into more than an exhibition—it is a tool for national transformation. By providing structure, exposure, and financing, it is helping Nigeria move closer to the dream of a diversified, globally competitive, and export-driven economy.

As Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe emphasized:
“FNITCC is at the heart of driving global market access for local businesses. With each edition, we are bringing Nigeria closer to realizing its dream of a truly diversified and globally competitive economy.”