The 2025 edition of the First Bank Agriculture and Export Expo was held on August 19th, 2025 at the prestigious Eko Convention Center with the theme The Fundamentals of Building a Non-Oil Export Driven Economy.
This event was graced by various dignitaries, major stakeholders in the Agricultural and Export industry, the Governor of Lagos State His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Niger State His Excellency Mr. Mohammed Umar Bago, Special Adviser on Technical affairs Engr. Ibrahim Alkali (representing the Federal Minister of Agriculture and Food Security), Mrs. Nonye Ayeni CEO Nigerian Export and Promotion Council (representing the Federal Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment) etc.
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The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Bank Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu in his welcome address, introduced himself as a farmer. He spoke on how agriculture can empower the nation and help with poverty alleviation. He also spoke about First Bank’s unwavering commitment to advancing Nigeria’s economic priorities. “This Expo reflects our shared vision for a stronger more resilient economy that is anchored on Food security, Agricultural business, solid minerals and most critically the expansion of non-oil exports”. He stated also that “The First Bank Agricultural and Export Expo stands as a beacon for collaboration, innovation and sustainable growth. Together we can chart a course to move Nigeria forward in the Agricultural sector”.
Mrs Nonye Ayeni, CEO Nigerian Export and Promotion Council who represented the Honourable Minister of Industry Trade, and Investment in her goodwill message said “This Expo is strategic and timely as it speaks directly to one of the most pressing national priorities of diversifying the Nigerian economy away from oil dependence by unlocking the full potential of Agriculture and Non-oil export “.
She also stated that the Nigerian agricultural sector holds a lot of potential not only to feed the nation but also to become a global powerhouse. Noting that Nigeria has the human capital, arable land and market size to become a leading Agro Industrial powerhouse. She spoke about the Ministry’s commitment to deepen the ease of doing business, simplify export processes, reduce trade bottlenecks and also link rural farmers to the International market.
The Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Sen. Abubakar Kyari who was represented by the Special Adviser on Technical affairs Engr. Ibrahim Alkali gave the keynote address. In his address he stated “When oil price is unstable, Nigeria trembles, when the naira slides food and fuel cost climbs, but when agriculture strives Nigerians breathe easier. This is simple economic truth”.
He commended First Bank for its initiative and advancement in the Agro Industry.
Engr. Ibrahim Alkali, emphasized the need for Nigerians to get involved in agriculture to avoid food shortage and scarcity when there is a global shock. “Our greatest asset is not oil, not even land but our people”. “They can be our strength especially if we equip our youths with the strength of innovation”. He further urged the audience to be the generation that turned Nigeria from an oil-dependent Nation to an agricultural Non-oil export nation.
The Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu thanked the First Bank and the Governor of Niger State for their interest in agricultural growth. During his speech, the Governor addressed the importance of Agriculture in the growth of an economy. With the slogan “No farmer no nation! Great farmers, great Nation”. Where there are no farmers, there is no nation.
He expressed his delight to be at the expo, stating that this initiative brings together various stakeholders to discuss the diversification of the nation through agricultural produce and export. He stated that “Nigerians must broaden their economic stage and move away from over-dependence on oil and build a resilient economy that is anchored on stability and productivity in the non-oil sector”.
His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State applauded First Bank for standing strong as the heart of Nigeria’s financial story for over 130 years. He stated that “By convening this expo today you are not only reaffirming your commitment to agriculture but you are also signaling to farmers, to processors and exporters that you are a reliable partner to build a truly export driven economy”.
Also during the event the Farmers’ governor His Excellency Mr. Mohammed Umar Bago, the governor of Niger State applauded First Bank for their boldness to be behind this initiative. He stated that First Bank is the Farmers Bank. He spoke and shared on the numerous advantages in agriculture as well as the future of Agriculture. He stated that one of the major challenges of farmers is access to finance and he is thankful that First Bank is helping to bridge the bank.
There were various plenary sessions and masterclasses during the event that addressed the needs and concerns of farmers. Different farming initiatives and beginner-friendly platforms were introduced to help sensitize and educate interested individuals on agricultural entrepreneurship.
