Signaling an aggressive push to integrate local enterprises into the continental market, the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) has kicked off its high-level engagement at the Creative Africa Nexus Weekend (CANEX WKND 2026) in Lagos.
As part of the official Cross River State delegation, MEDA is leveraging the prestigious regional platform to unlock creative financing models, secure strategic partnerships, and position the State’s burgeoning MSMEs and creative economy for global competitiveness under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Running from November 5 to 8, 2026, CANEX WKND serves as the official precursor to the upcoming Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2027). MEDA’s participation directly advances Cross River’s core economic priorities—anchored on Agribusiness & Agro-Processing, Tourism, Blue Economy, and Solid Minerals.
With the continent targeting approximately $50 billion in trade and investment deals through the IATF ecosystem, MEDA is utilizing the state showcase and pavilion to pitch investment-ready projects and secure non-traditional funding channels for local innovators.
‘Our mission in Lagos is clear: we are moving Cross River businesses from mere market access to true market power, noted by Great Ogban, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of MEDA. “By pursuing creative financing solutions and establishing direct B2B linkages with global buyers and financiers, we are unlocking the full economic potential of our creative and entrepreneurial sectors.”
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