Zenith Bank backs Canada-Africa Business Conference to deepen trade and investment ties
By Aboki Forex —
Zenith Bank Plc has reaffirmed its support for stronger trade and investment between Canada and Africa. The bank was the Headline Conference Sponsor of the 6th Canada-Africa Business Conference held on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 at Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event was organised by the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business. It brought together a high-level Canadian business delegation representing 31 companies. Senior government officials, business leaders, investors, policymakers, diplomats and development partners also attended.
The goal was to strengthen commercial relations between Canada and Africa. It also aimed to position Nigeria as a strategic gateway for Canadian businesses looking for opportunities across the continent.
The Canadian delegation included companies operating in financial services, security, mining and critical minerals, legal and professional services, infrastructure, technology, healthcare, education and clean energy. Among those present were GardaWorld, Dentons, Baywood Group, Element, Trilliant and other leading Canadian firms exploring commercial opportunities and strategic partnerships in Nigeria.
The Executive Director of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Akin Ogunranti, delivered the keynote address on behalf of the Group Managing Director and CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON. He described the conference as a timely platform for deepening commercial partnerships between Canada and Africa amid shifting global economic realities.
He stressed that Africa is ready to lead the next phase of global economic growth. He said the continent now has the institutions, policy frameworks and partnerships needed to turn its potential into shared prosperity.
“The question is not whether Africa is rich in potential. It is whether we can turn that potential into prosperity our people can feel. For the first time, the answer is yes, because of the machinery we are now building,” he said.
Representing the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mr. Babatunde Onigbanjo, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for investment.