Nigeria will host the African Trade, Tourism and Culture Expo alongside I Believe Carnival Nigeria 2026 from November 10 to 12 at Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja. The event will bring together stakeholders to promote intra-African trade, tourism, cultural heritage and economic development.
The three-day continental event is being organised by the I Believe Cultural and Social Development Foundation under the theme, “Africa in Motion Where Trade, Culture & Capital Meet.”
Speaking at the official press briefing, Convener and Chief Organiser, Omoefe Tawiyah said; ”the initiative aims to connect African businesses, investors, tourism professionals, government institutions and creatives to create opportunities for trade, investment and cross-border partnerships.”
Tawiyah explained that the expo would provide a platform for exhibitions, business engagements and summit discussions, while the carnival would celebrate Africa’s cultural heritage through music, dance, storytelling, craftsmanship, food and other traditional expressions.
He highlighted plans to involve schools, students, National Youth Service Corps members, emerging creatives and persons with disabilities, while encouraging Africans in the diaspora to participate in the event.
The Organisers also announced plans for live online streaming to enable International audiences to follow the event.
According to him, interested delegates, exhibitors and participants can register through the official website.
Tawiyah expressed confidence that ATibelievecarnival.comTCE and I Believe Carnival Nigeria 2026 would strengthen business relationships, promote cultural exchange and position Abuja as a major destination for African trade, tourism and cultural celebrations.
He said “The final day will feature five carnival bands representing Love, Unity, Progress, Hope and Peace, alongside community groups, NYSC members and school participants”.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, NTDA, Dr Olayiwola Awakun, represented by Mr Akinyele sopke on the connection between tourism and culture, noting that the event would showcase Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups and revive carnival celebrations in Abuja.
Similarly, Principal Arts Officer at the National Council for Arts and Culture, NCAC, Mr Etim Peter, representing its Director-General, Dr Obi Asika called for greater commercialisation of Nigeria’s arts, culture and tourism sectors to unlock their economic potential.
The National President of the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN), Chief Abiodun Odunsanwo also commended the initiative and pledged the support of the institute’s council, fellows and members.
The programme will feature a Leadership Summit on November 10, a Trade and Exhibition Expo on November 11, and a Street Carnival and Cultural Parade on November 12.
