Stanbic IBTC Bank, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has been
confirmed as the platinum sponsor of the highly anticipated GTR West
Africa 2026 conference, taking place on 22 and 23 April, at the Eko
Convention Centre in Lagos. This landmark event brings together over 400
senior trade and finance professionals for two days of insightful
discussions, networking, and innovation, tailored to enhance trade
growth across West Africa.
Now firmly established as the most influential annual gathering for
trade finance professionals in the region, GTR West Africa 2026 marks
its 17th year and arrives at a defining moment.
The conference takes place at a time of improving economic conditions
across the region; creating renewed opportunities for trade‑led
growth.
Eric Fajemisin, Executive Director, Corporate & Transaction Banking,
Stanbic IBTC Bank, highlighted, “West Africa’s trade finance market is
at a turning point. Improving macroeconomic fundamentals, an increasing
demand for structured and digital trade finance solutions, and a renewed
global focus on African markets have created a need for bold,
coordinated action. Stanbic IBTC Bank is proud to be at the forefront of
this conversation as the lead sponsor of GTR West Africa 2026. Our
commitment extends beyond the conference; it represents a broader
ambition to build a deeper, more resilient, and more inclusive trade
finance ecosystem that will empower the next generation of West African
commerce.”
In the face of global geopolitical uncertainties, evolving trade
alliances, and increasing tariff pressures, the conference theme,
“Financing Growth in West Africa’s Trade Epicentre,” underscores
the urgent need for strategic resilience among regional trade actors.
The agenda will delve into key critical themes shaping the trade
landscape in West Africa, including export diversification,
infrastructure financing, supply chain finance, digital trade, and the
evolution of structured trade finance in the commodities sector.
Featured speakers from Stanbic IBTC include Seun Ogundolapo, Head of
Trade – Transaction Banking, who is expected to share practical
perspectives on structuring trade finance to support imports, exports,
working capital, and risk management. Also speaking at the event is
Sreenivas Alagonda, Chief Financial Officer, Robust International
Commodities, a client of Stanbic IBTC Bank; who will be bringing a real
economy borrower perspective on commodity trade execution; including
what businesses need from banking partners across financing,
documentation, and transaction risk control.
Jesuseun Fatoyinbo, Head, Transaction Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank,
stated, “Participating in GTR West Africa 2026 represents a crucial
opportunity for us to connect with leading trade finance experts and
stakeholders in the region. As we navigate the evolving trade landscape,
our aim at Stanbic IBTC Bank is to promote collaboration and innovation
that will foster sustainable growth in West Africa. We view this
conference as an essential platform for sharing insights and exploring
solutions that will empower businesses and strengthen the regional
economy.”
GTR West Africa 2026 will provide participants with extensive networking
opportunities, enabling engagement with industry peers, experts, and
decision‑makers across the trade and finance ecosystem.
With a diverse range of experts and stakeholders in attendance, this
event promises to be a valuable platform for expanding professional
networks and fostering business relationships.
Stanbic IBTC’s sponsorship reflects its strategic commitment to
elevating trade and finance capacity across Nigeria and the wider West
African region, consistent with its mandate as a key enabler of trade,
investment, and economic transformation on the continent.
