- CONITA 2025
The theme of this year’s conference repackaged: Thriving Together: Shaping the Future of Trade Association Industry
Statutorily, trade associations provide a collective voice for their members and a forum to solve common problems driven by the objectives and laws establishing them. Rehashing the essence of trade associations in the front burner for socio-economic development of Nigeria is quite imperative. The roles for Economic Development and sustainability are beyond the confine effort of a single trade association, individual or organization hence the clarion demand for a broad base multi-stakeholder conference
Our Focus: Conference Theme; Thriving Together: Shaping the Future of Trade Association Industrys
Trade associations are typically organizations funded by businesses within a specific industry to coordinate activities like lobbying, public relations, education, and setting industry standards. They play a significant role in influencing public policy, facilitating networking, and driving collective advocacy efforts.
In today’s highly interconnected and competitive global marketplace, trade associations play a pivotal role in representing industry interests, fostering collaboration, and advocating for policy changes. The theme “Thriving Together: Shaping the Future of Trade Association Industry” presents a thought-provoking concept that challenges the traditional role and importance of trade associations in modern economies.
This conference aims to bring together key stakeholders; including trade association leaders, government officials, business entrepreneurs, investors, and development partners to deliberate on strategies that will enable the industry to thrive amidst present economic realities and to shape a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for Nigeria’s trade associations industry as a whole.
It will also foster dialogue around the essential roles trade associations play in not just the economy, but also in community building, advocacy, and innovation.
Objectives:
1. Examine the Role of Trade Associations: Explore the foundational purposes of trade associations, including lobbying efforts, industry standards, professional development, and networking opportunities.
2. Assess the current state of the Nigeria Trade Association Industry amid the present economic climate.
3. Identify innovative approaches, policies, and practices that can enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of trade associations.
4. Facilitate knowledge sharing and networking among industry stakeholders to foster collaborative growth.
5. Explore emerging trends, technologies, and market opportunities that can shape the future of trade associations in Nigeria.
6. Develop actionable strategies for capacity building, advocacy, and policy influence to support industry growth.
Factored Questions:
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I. How can trade associations foster stronger collaboration and partnership among members to drive collective growth?
II. Who would advocate for policy changes and collective interests in various sectors?
III. How might technology and digital platforms serve as substitutes for traditional trade associations?
IV. What innovative strategies can trade associations adopt to adapt to the rapidly changing global trade environment?
V. How can technology and digital transformation enhance the value proposition of trade associations for their members?
VI. In what ways can trade associations influence policy and advocate effectively for their industries in a complex regulatory landscape?
VII. How can trade associations support sustainability and responsible business practices within their sectors?
VIII. What skills and capabilities will future leaders of trade associations need to thrive in a dynamic industry?
IX. How can trade associations leverage data and insights to better serve their members and anticipate industry trends?
X. What role do diversity, equity, and inclusion play in shaping the future of the trade association industry?
XI. How can trade associations foster innovation and agility to remain relevant and competitive?
XII. What are the best practices for building resilient organizations that can withstand economic and geopolitical uncertainties?
Formats:
- Panel Discussions: Featuring industry experts, economists, and policymakers discussing the multifaceted aspects of operating without trade associations.
- Workshops and Exhibitions: Hands-on sessions to develop strategies for businesses to navigate and thrive in an environment devoid of collective representation. And provision of opportunity for exhibition especially for the service industry.
- Keynote Speeches: Inspirational talks from thought leaders tackling the importance of collaboration in business, regardless of formal structures.
- Award Ceremony: This year’s Conference shall feature Award Session to honour well deserving individuals, corporate organizations and trade associations for their Support towards inclusive economic growth across sectors. The award comes in different categories.
- Networking Opportunities: Facilitate connections among attendees who are exploring innovative solutions to industry challenges in the absence of trade associations.
In Summary: This conference invites stakeholders, thought leaders, and industry members to explore and critically evaluate the indispensable role that trade associations play in today’s economy. By envisioning a nation without them, we can better appreciate their value and consider how industries can adapt and thrive in rapidly changing landscapes.
Convergence
Every entity operates under one economy which is practically the ground of convergence. This reality appeals for an innovative mechanism which saw the berth of Conference of Nigeria Trade Associations. We are inspired by veritable achievement over time; share and believe in SDGs 2030, as well as in the Africa Agenda 2063.
Our research findings showed that one out of every four trades and industry in Nigeria has a trade association, these findings propose trade associations as an increasing factor for business life and persuasive voice for development and sustainability in Nigeria. Sustainability, entrepreneurship, and trade associations are interconnected concepts that promote economic growth, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship.
Issues
The ways and extent to which industry associations are recognized as representatives of various sectors by their members and other audience is an issue of concern. The debated issues that members want their trade association to be “tough in defending their interests” irrespective of constitutional legitimacy and existing codes of conduct, and whether members need some degree of independent interactions with other associations is indeed pivotal. Discovering strategies to subdue these challenges will be a huge factor for business survival as we strove through the 21st century.
Emphatically, the roles for Economic Development and sustainability are beyond the confine effort of a single trade association, individual or organization hence the clarion demand for a broad base multi-stakeholder conference.
Sub-Theme for 2025:
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• Overview of Trade Associations; the case of Nigeria
• Innovative Strategies for Sustainable Growth in Trade Associations
• Digital Transformation and Technology Adoption in Trade Industry
• Collaborative Leadership: Building Stronger Trade Networks
• Adapting to Market Disruptions: Resilience and Agility in Trade Associations
• Leveraging Data Analytics for Industry Insights and Decision-Making
• Fostering Inclusivity and Diversity within Trade Organizations
• The Role of Trade Associations in Shaping Policy and Advocacy
• Enhancing Member Engagement through Digital Platforms
• Building Strategic Partnerships for Mutual Industry Advancement
• Future Trends and Opportunities in the Trade Association Sector
• Sustainable Practices and Corporate Social Responsibility in Trade
• Capacity Building and Skill Development for Industry Sustainability
• Harnessing Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Trade Sectors
• Navigating Global Trade Challenges: The Role of Trade Associations
• Creating a Collaborative Ecosystem for Industry Growth
Implementation Strategy
CONiTA 2025 is planned for a one-day interactive conference meeting; scheduled for Wednesday 10th September, 2025 in with collaboration with other stakeholders including the Lagos Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment. The Conference is open for free to diverse trade associations and their members, formal and informal entrepreneurs.
Nigeria Trade Associations are expected to nominate two members of their associations who are serving in the leadership position to attend the constituted monthly, quarterly training/networking programme. It is also opened for players in the formal and informal enterprises at no fee.
Media Coverage
The event is expected to be covered by print, visuals and other electronic media.
Who Should Attend
The event is open to informal entrepreneurs and offers value to trade associations across the public service, private and manufacturing sectors of Nigeria. The Conference is open to legally existing and well registered associations.
Highlights of Past Events:
2024 Theme: The Nexus of Sustainability, Entrepreneurship and Trade Association in a Modern World
2023 Theme: Prerequisite for Acceleration of Economic Growth and Development in Modern Nigeria
2022 Theme: The Place of Small and Micro Enterprise for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development in Africa
2021 Theme: Governance and Economic Prosperity in a Pandemic World
2019 Theme: Convergence of Informal Sector and Trade Associations for Sustainable Development
2018Theme: Harnessing the Power of Trade Associations for Good Governance, Inclusive Growth and Shared Prosperity
Our Previous Speakers: Include
- Prof. Labode Popoola, Co-Chair, UN-SDSN Nigeria
- Mr. Alex Nwuba, President, International Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (IOPA) Nigeria Chapter
- Hon. Emmanuel Jime, Fmr. Managing Director, Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) Represented by a NEPZA Personnel, Mr. Ella Onoja.
- Mrs. Taiwo Abiose, Head of Entrepreneurship Department, Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation & Employment.
- Mr. Ajepeaiye Nurudeen, Executive member of National Electronics Technician Association of Nigeria,
- Mr. Aderoju Babatunde , Executive member of Professional Carpenters and Furniture Makers Association of Lagos
- Mrs. Adenike Opebi of the Lagos State Chapter of Rentals Association,
- Mrs. Bolanle Atilola, bBusiness Coach and Sustainability Expert, CESDEV, University of Ibadan.
- Uade Ahimie (ACA), Business Advisor, Founder Accounting Lab, & Author of CRAPI-FART
- Mr. Afolabi Solebo, General Manager, Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA).
- Mr. Babatunde Irukera, Fmr. Chief executive officer (CEO) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
- Ms. Susie Onwuka, Lagos State Representative of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC)
- Engr. Lukeman Hussein, Executive of the Earth Moving Equipment Association, Lagos State.
- Mr. Olajide Hammed, a representative of Lagos State Aluminum Fabrication Association of Nigeria (LASAFA)
- Mr. Gbolahan Akinsanya, Executive of the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA)
- Mr. Uwanni Samson Executive of the Lagos Estate Management Associations (LASEMA)
- Sis. Maltida Ajibola Sipeolu, Governor of the Association of Professional Wedding Engagement Coordinators of Nigeria (APWECON), Alagba Ijoko/Iduro Unit
- Mr. Taiwo Sowore, National Co-Coordinator of the Association of Computer Engineers & Technicians of Nigeria (ACET)
- Mr. Omotoba Saheed, President of the Lagos State Association of Embroidery Designers
- Mrs. J. O. Amida, President of the Lagos State Tailor and Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (LASTFADAN)
- Mr. Babawale Thompson-John, Assistant Director, Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment
- Mr. Amechi Obiakpu, Media Practitioner, Founder ESPI News
- Mr. Tony Peters (ACA),Business Management Expert
- Mr. David Ogunba, Marketing Consultant, Ogunba Marketing world
- Engr. Saidat Yusuf, Senior Electrical Engineer
- Mr. Lanre Bayewu, Executive Secretary, Nigeria Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association (NLPGA)
- Dr. Nelson obine, President of the Institute of Trade Association Management
- Mr. Ajepeaiye Nurudeen of National Electronics Technician Association of Nigeria,
- Mr. Aderoju Babatunde of Professional Carpenters and Furniture Makers Association of Lagos
- Adenike Opebi of the Lagos State Chapter of Rentals Association of Nigeria
- Princess Jumoke Owoola, Projects Director, Centre for Indigenous Knowledge, Development Sustainability
The year’s Conference is a product of the Institute of Trade Associations Management Ltd/Gte; focused on knowledge, advocacy and research for meaningful leadership; and People Planet and Profit Media a foremost firm of business development and sustainability experts.
Corporate and Media Supports
- First Bank Nigeria
- Guinness Nigeria Plc
- Nigerian Breweries Plc
- Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc
- Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers
- Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)
- Wholemart Ventures
- People Planet & Profit Media
- University of Ibadan Centre for Sustainable Development (CESDEV)
- News Express Online,
- Economy Watch Magazine
- ESPi News
- MITV Lagos, Prime Time News
Contact us: ITAM Place, 2A, Ogunnusi Road, Riggs Plaza, Omole Phase 1, Omole Bus Stop, Ojodu-Berger, Lagos, Nigeria. Email: info@conita.org.ng Web: www.conita.org.ng
Direct Email: nobine@conita.org.ng Tel: 0915 540 8001.