Day 1 of the Science of Trade Conference 2025 wasn’t just the beginning of a three-day event. It was a powerful statement about what’s possible when entrepreneurs, government agencies, industry leaders, grassroots traders, and tech innovators come together to unlock real access to African and global markets.
The Science of Trade Conference 2025 kicked off with the 7th anniversary of NICERT. Marked by a keynote session from Annabel Kamuche, Group Managing Director of NICERT. More than ceremonial, the unveiling of NICERT’s new accreditation marked a pivotal shift for small and medium-scale exporters. Emphasizing how certification, credibility, and compliance are essential for scaling African products to global standards.
Science of Trade 2025: Unlocking Africa’s Trade Potential
The conversation expanded quickly across multiple halls as stakeholders explored key topics shaping the continent’s trade ecosystem:
- Trade financing and export readiness
- Digital trade facilitation under the AfCFTA
- Sustainable agriculture and certification standards
- The role of traditional markets in economic inclusion
In a compelling welcome address, Barr. Olusegun Awolowo, National Coordinator of the Nigeria AfCFTA Coordination Office, set the tone for the day. This was followed by a keynote from Dr. Talkmore Chidede (representing H.E. Wamkele Mene of the AfCFTA Secretariat), which spotlighted the future of digital trade in Africa.
The conference also saw the official launch of the AfCFTA Hackathon, co-led by Dr. Olusegun Olutayo, which challenged Africa’s brightest young developers to build transformative trade-tech solutions.
Grounded in the Market—Rooted in Reality
One of the most powerful moments came during a dedicated session with indigenous market women from Ikeja, led by Alhaja Adiat Apena, the Iyaloja General. Their insights reminded attendees that traditional trade networks and informal economies are the foundation of African commerce and must be included in future-focused trade dialogues.
Innovation on Display: Food, Sustainability, and Leadership
The Innovation Hub was a showcase of Nigerian entrepreneurial excellence:
Chow Noodle Bar, co-founded by Victoria Ajayi, launched its Ultimate Sauce—a homegrown product now positioned for international shelves.
Nexus of Nature unveiled its new hub and hosted the session “Money Grows on Trees”, spotlighting the financial potential of sustainable farming. Speakers included Afie Braimoh, former Edo State Commissioner and founder of WOTFODS Africa.
Kryptr, led by CEO Emmanuel Tarfar, ran two impactful workshops on leadership and customer experience, key pillars for SMEs scaling in a competitive global economy.
Meanwhile, the exhibition booths buzzed with ideas, innovations, and authentic African products—from certified cashews and organic grains to textiles, agroforestry models, and climate-smart tools.
The Takeaway? This Is Just the Beginning
As the energy of Day 1 wound down, one thing was clear: the future of African trade is being written by the people in these rooms—visionaries, builders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs ready to push beyond potential into performance.
Follow the movement.
See more highlights from Day 1 on Instagram: @scienceoftradeconference
Register now for Day 2 to experience what’s next. Register to secure your seat
For media inquiries contact yd@yettyd.com, for partnerships, or exhibitor information, contact SOT at event@scienceoftradeconference.com | +234 916 766 7376
About the Science of Trade Conference
The Science of Trade Conference (SOT), an initiative by the Ascend Studios Foundation, empowers African entrepreneurs to master the intricacies of local and international trade, unlocking pathways for sustainable growth. The conference provides extensive training on export readiness, trade facilitation, fostering connections, and overcoming trade barriers while promoting intra-African and global trade possibilities.
For related articles on SOT2025, check here.
