The Abuja Investment Company Limited has said that it is expecting over 500 global investors from 40 countries for this year’s Abuja Business Investment Expo.

In a statement on Friday, the acting Head of Public Relations and Communications, Fatima Nadada, said the annual gathering, which will feature top government officials, industry leaders, policymakers, investors, diplomats, financiers and innovators within and outside the country, will also showcase the investment opportunities in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, the sub-nationals and other emerging markets.

According to the Q1 2025 Capital Importation report released by the National Bureau of Statistics, Abuja had overtaken Lagos as Nigeria’s top destination for foreign capital inflow. The report revealed that the Federal Capital Territory attracted $3.04bn in capital importation during the first quarter of 2025, surpassing Lagos, which drew $2.54bn in the same period.

The expo, which has the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as the chief host, is scheduled to be held at the President Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, in October.

The year’s theme, ‘Empowering Sustainable Growth: Unlocking Potential in Emerging Markets,’ highlighted the critical importance of innovative and inclusive approaches to economic development.

“It will also feature panel discussions, keynote speeches, business matchmaking sessions, stimulating debates, and interactive networking opportunities that will make a lasting impression on attendees. The Expo is part of a broader vision of the Minister of the FCT to reposition Abuja as a global investment hub, foster sustainable urban development, and drive economic diversification through strategic partnerships and private sector engagement,” said part of the statement.

On the expo, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of AICL, Dr. Maureen Tamuno, said, “This convergence of diverse perspectives will not only explore investment opportunities but also address the pressing challenges facing emerging markets, paving the way for practical solutions and actionable strategies.”

She highlighted the primary objectives of the investment summit to include: “Showcasing the economic and investment potential in the FCT across various sectors; providing a forum for dialogue between policymakers, investors, and stakeholders to address challenges and opportunities in Abuja’s business environment.

“Facilitating collaborations between government agencies and private sector entities to drive innovation and economic growth; connecting local entrepreneurs with international businesses, investors, and development, as well as fostering a robust knowledge exchange platform that empowers stakeholders with insights into investment trends, regulatory frameworks, and market opportunities.”