FirstBank Announces 2025 Agric & Export Conference to Drive Nigeria’s Non-Oil Economy
Lagos, Nigeria – FirstBank, West Africa’s leading financial institution and champion of financial inclusion, has unveiled plans for its flagship 2025 Agric and Export Conference, setting the stage for critical discussions about Nigeria’s economic future beyond oil dependence.
Charting Nigeria’s Economic Future
Scheduled for August 19, 2025 at the prestigious Eko Convention Centre, this year’s conference carries the timely theme: “The Fundamentals of Building a Non-Oil Export Driven Economy.” The event marks another milestone in FirstBank’s ongoing commitment to positioning agriculture and non-oil exports as engines for national development.
“What does it really take to build an economy that thrives without oil revenues?” This fundamental question will guide discussions at the hybrid-format conference, which combines in-person participation for key stakeholders with virtual access for broader audiences.
A Gathering of Economic Visionaries
The conference boasts an impressive lineup of speakers and panelists from across Nigeria’s agricultural and financial sectors:
- Senator Abubakar Kyari, Honourable Minister of Agriculture & Food Security (Keynote Speaker)
- Mr. Jafar Abubakar Umar, Managing Director, Bank of Agriculture
- Mr. Abba Bello, MD/CEO, Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM)
- Mr. Segun Awolowo, National Action Committee on AfCFTA
- Architect Kabir Ibrahim, President, All Farmers Association of Nigeria
- Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC)
Beyond Talk: Practical Solutions for Economic Transformation
The event structure goes beyond conventional conference formats, offering participants:
- Interactive plenary discussions dissecting the conference theme
- Technical sessions led by subject matter experts
- An exhibition showcasing innovations from major industry players
- Networking opportunities across the agricultural value chain
FirstBank’s Strategic Vision
FirstBank’s Managing Director, Olusegun Alebiosu, emphasized the conference’s strategic importance: “This isn’t just another talking shop. We’re creating a dynamic platform where knowledge transforms into actionable strategies. By connecting stakeholders across the agricultural and export ecosystem, we’re building the foundations for sustainable economic diversification.”
Alebiosu highlighted how the conference aligns with FirstBank’s broader mission: “Through initiatives like this, we’re not just discussing theory – we’re empowering our customers with practical tools, market insights, and valuable connections that translate into real business growth.”
Why This Matters Now
With global economic shifts and Nigeria’s urgent need to diversify its revenue streams, the timing of this conference couldn’t be more critical. Agriculture currently contributes about 24% to Nigeria’s GDP but remains largely untapped in terms of export potential. The conference will address key challenges including:
- Modernizing agricultural practices for global competitiveness
- Navigating international trade agreements like AfCFTA
- Accessing financing for agricultural exporters
- Building resilient value chains
Participation and Next Steps
Interested participants from across Nigeria and beyond can register for the virtual component of the conference at: FirstBank Conference Registration.
As Nigeria stands at an economic crossroads, initiatives like the FirstBank Agric and Export Conference provide more than just discussion – they offer a roadmap for transforming the country’s economic future. With agriculture positioned as the most viable alternative to oil revenues, this gathering could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s development narrative.
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