The Science of Trade Conference 2025, spearheaded by Dr. Inya Lawal, Founder of the Ascend Studios Foundation, concluded a groundbreaking three-day summit at the Landmark Event Centre, Lagos. This high-impact event brought together African trade experts, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and diaspora stakeholders under the powerful theme: “Access to Market.”
Designed to advance Africa’s participation in global trade, the conference spotlighted key pillars of inclusive economic growth. As well as industrial transformation across the continent.Which are certification, innovation, sustainable agriculture, women’s economic empowerment, and digital trade
NICERT Celebrates 7th Anniversary & Certification for Trade Competitiveness
The event opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the 7th anniversary of NICERT, Nigeria’s certification body. NICERT’s Group MD, Annabel Kamuche, emphasized the importance of global trade standards, stating:
“Our accreditation connects African small businesses to the world. Certification isn’t optional—it’s essential.”
NICERT offered free HACCP certifications and provided vital advisory services throughout the conference.
Nexus of Nature Hub Launch: Building Climate-Resilient Food Systems
During the Nexus of Nature Hub launch, Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Cooperatives & Commerce, addressed the urgency of urban agricultural innovation. She emphasized climate-smart, tech-enabled food production. Also, she commended founder Olusola Sowemimo for pioneering sustainability-led agribusiness models that empower smallholder farmers, youth, and women.
Strategic Trade Dialogues: Public-Private Synergy & U.S.–Africa Trade
Day Two featured strategic discussions with Margaret Olele, CEO of the American Business Council, and JoEllen Gorg, Acting U.S. Consul General, who highlighted deeper U.S.–Africa trade ties and private-sector engagement.
Ayo Sotinrin, MD of the Bank of Agriculture, stressed the importance of inclusive financing and infrastructure for African agricultural producers, declaring:
“Trade cannot scale without first empowering the base of the production pyramid.”
Women in Trade: Voices for Inclusive Economic Participation
Grassroots leader Alhaja Adiat Apena, Iyaloja General of Ikeja, issued a clarion call for gender equity in trade, asserting:
“If we don’t open up access to women, we’re shutting the door on half of Nigeria’s economy.”
Mrs. Nnenna Jacob-Ogogo, Head of SheVentures, reinforced this message, underscoring trade empowerment as a catalyst for job creation and innovation.
African Food Entrepreneurs Go Global
In a vibrant session titled “From Kitchens to Markets”, attendees witnessed the debut of two standout products:
- Chow Noodle Bar’s Ultimate Sauce, launched by Victoria Ajayi, merges traditional African flavors with modern convenience.
- Oyin Ade, a premium organic honey brand by actress Ade Laoye, celebrates African wellness exports and sustainable luxury.
Digital Innovation: AfCFTA Hackathon & Startup Empowerment
A major milestone was the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol Hackathon, which encouraged tech-driven trade solutions. Winning team Export PLUG received ₦20 million, while teams GET AI and others shared innovation grants totaling over ₦40 million, supported by NITDA and Amazon Web Services.
Kryptr’s Emmanuel Tarfa led two packed business masterclasses and awarded ₦2 million in grants to eight rising entrepreneurs, including SundryAgro Ltd, Londya Foods, and Flinks Food & Beverage.
FashionEVO: Showcasing African Fashion as a Trade Powerhouse
In collaboration with Olorisupergal and Made in Africa, FashionEVO brought together African fashion leaders such as Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi, Adenike Ogunlesi, and Lanre Da-Silva Ajayi. Discussions explored African fashion’s global export potential and digital marketing strategies. The ₦500,000 grand prize went to Legs Apparel Fashion School for their winning pitch on content-driven fashion commerce.
Empowering the Trade Ecosystem for Africa’s Future
In her closing remarks, Dr. Inya Lawal stated:
“Trade is the engine, but people are the power. The Science of Trade is about reshaping Africa’s economic future—by Africans, for Africa, and the world.”
The Science of Trade Conference 2025 proved that with the right tools—certification, digital innovation, inclusive policies, and bold entrepreneurs—Africa can lead global trade conversations with authenticity and impact.
For Media Inquiries: yd@yettyd.com
Partnerships or Exhibitor Info: event@scienceoftradeconference.com
About the Science of Trade Conference 2025
The Science of Trade Conference (SOT), an initiative of the Ascend Studios Foundation, is dedicated to equipping African entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and networks to thrive in local and international trade. SOT convenes leaders across sectors to explore the strategic science behind trade and economic transformation in Africa.
