Fidelity Bank Plc has announced plans to spotlight the role of financial technology in driving U.S.–Africa trade, as part of its upcoming international trade and investment forum in Atlanta, United States.
In a statement released by the bank, the panel session titled “Digital Railroads: Powering U.S.–Africa Commerce Through Fintech” will form a major highlight of the Fidelity International Trade and Creative Connect (FNITCC) scheduled to hold later this year.
The session is expected to convene leading voices in digital finance, including former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Aisha Ahmad; Founder of Payaza Africa, Seyi Ebenezer; and Chief Executive Officer of Sawport, Charles Oligbo. Discussions will center on how fintech is reshaping cross-border commerce through seamless payments, enhanced access to finance, and improved financial inclusion across Africa and the diaspora.
Driving Africa’s Trade Potential
Commenting ahead of the event, Divisional Head, Agric. and Exports at Fidelity Bank Plc, Isaiah Ndukwe, stressed the critical role of digital finance in bridging Africa’s trade gaps.
“The African Continental Free Trade Area is projected to boost intra-African trade by more than 50 percent by 2030. But challenges like fragmented payment systems, currency conversion, and limited trade finance continue to hold businesses back. Fintechs are uniquely positioned to address these gaps, enabling real-time, low-cost cross-border payments, offering alternative financing for SMEs, creating digital identities for exporters, and facilitating diaspora remittances and investments. This is why we’re putting fintech at the heart of discussions at FNITCC Atlanta,” Ndukwe said.
Growing Fintech Market
According to the African Development Bank, Africa’s fintech revenues are projected to reach $30 billion by 2025, underscoring the sector’s role as both a transaction enabler and a growth driver for trade. Fidelity Bank noted that the session aims to demonstrate how digital finance can accelerate Africa’s integration into the global economy, particularly with the U.S. market.
High-Level Participation
Hosted in partnership with AFRICON, the premier global gathering of African innovators and changemakers, FNITCC Atlanta is projected to attract over 3,000 participants, including trade agencies, investors, exporters, and diaspora professionals. The event is expected to facilitate trade and investment deals worth more than $400 million.
Fidelity Bank said its fintech-focused dialogue will provide a platform for stakeholders to address structural challenges while unlocking opportunities for inclusive trade. By positioning fintech as a cornerstone of Africa’s trade strategy, the bank reiterated its commitment to advancing sustainable growth and cross-border collaboration.