Afretrade Announces Entrepreneurship Festival

Afretrade Inc., a U.S.-based business consortium focused on global trade facilitation and diaspora investment, has announced the maiden edition of the Afretrade Entrepreneur’s Festival (TAEF) 2026, a three-day event bringing together entrepreneurs, diaspora investors, policymakers and institutions.

The announcement was made during a media parley held in Lagos on June 11 ahead of the festival, scheduled for June 17 to June 19 at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Chief Operating Officer of Afretrade and Festival Director of TAEF 2026, Dr. Charly Lemassi, said, “Its important to do this right now because the time is now. They always say Africa is the next frontier but I believe that Africa is now. Its not next its now. With what is going on a lot of people are really losing hope because of inflation and cost of living people cannot even cope financially, emotionally even mentally. Its now for the solution to come to them.”

The theme of the maiden edition is “Mobilizing the Global Diaspora to be the Catalyst of Africa’s Economic Renaissance through Entrepreneurship and Job Creation.” Organisers said the event will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and development institutions to discuss trade, investment and economic opportunities across Africa.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Afretrade Inc., Lekan Salaam, said, “It is the entrepreneur that creates jobs that’s why we came down to Lagos one of the thriving states in Africa. We want to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit. Thats why we are lauching in Lagos and its our maiden editon.”

The event is expected to host more than 3,000 delegates from over 40 countries, including participants from Africa, Europe, North America, South America and the Caribbean.

Organisers said the festival will also mark the launch of two initiatives: the Africa Economic Renaissance Movement and the Lagos–California Sister State Economic Corridor.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is expected to deliver the opening address at the festival , while California State Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin will also speak on economic relations between Lagos and California. Other expected participants include the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), and Afretrade Founder and CEO Lekan Salaam.

Programme highlights include a startup pitch session with a $10,000 grant opportunity, a Pan African talent showcase, fashion presentations, networking sessions and masterclasses.

Also present at the media parley were TAEF Youth Director Paul Akume and TAEF Regional Project Manager Moss Uromtah.

Organisers described the event as a platform for engagement between entrepreneurs, investors and institutions focused on trade, investment and business development.