Antiguan Journalist Joins Over 12,000 Participants at Afreximbank’s 32nd Annual Meetings in Nigeria

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Shermain Bique-Charles at Afrexim Banks Conference (photo by Curlan Campbell)

Twelve thousand participants from over 80 countries have flown into Abuja, Nigeria, for the highly anticipated 32nd Annual Meetings of Afreximbank.

Among the attendees is Shermain Bique-Charles, representing Antigua.news.

On Tuesday, a welcome reception was held for journalists ahead of what is expected to be a busy next couple of days.

This event, which will take place from June 25th to 27th, gathers an influential coalition of leaders from across the globe, including African and CARICOM representatives.

The meetings, which have the theme “Building the Future on Decades of Resilience,” aim to advance trade, investment, and innovation across the continent.

Afreximbank’s Annual Meetings are set to deliver significant economic benefits in both the short and long term. Key outcomes anticipated from the event include mobilizing trade and investment, advancing policy and institutional frameworks, and strengthening South-South cooperation.

The discussions will facilitate crucial trade and investment agreements, including Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and public-private partnerships, with expectations of catalyzing billions of dollars in funding for strategic sectors over the next 5-10 years.

Bringing together heads of state, ministers, leaders of trade institutions, policymakers, and private sector representatives, the meetings will address several priorities.

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These include implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), enhancing cross-border payment systems for regional transactions, and strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean through expanded trade, tourism, and joint ventures.

The overarching goal is to reduce business costs, improve trade infrastructure, and deepen regional economic integration.
With contributions from world-renowned economists, scholars, and entrepreneurs, the gathering is set to shape thought leadership on Africa’s development path.

The initiatives launched at this year’s meetings aim to influence policy, shift narratives, and inspire reforms that promote innovation, inclusion, and competitiveness in the region.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/06/25/antiguan-journalist-joins-over-12000-participants-at-afreximbanks-32nd-annual-meetings-in-nigeria. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.

Comments (10)

  • Teacher for Life June 25, 2025, 8:36 AM

    Ironically a young lady was allegedly kidnapped, held for ransom, and eventually killed on Monday in Abuja so be great but also be vigilant, Mrs. Bique-Charles.
    Reply
    • Waw June 25, 2025, 9:17 AM

      Waw teacher for life. Just waw!!!
      Reply
    • Informed citizen June 25, 2025, 7:47 PM

      Lol how ironic. Wait for the article on that to be published.
      Reply
  • Faithful National #1 June 25, 2025, 9:38 AM

    Such incidents, depressing and distressing as they are, occur everyday in every single part of the world. So while I thank the “teacher” for his usual effort to remain relevant in today’s world, I would not want us to ever downplay or dismiss the remarkable and exciting prospects of such a forum between African and Caribbean that could potentially strengthen and unite the African/Caribbean region.
    Danger is everywhere. It’s quite possible that en route to your own workplace or simply sitting undera tree……. a coconut jap from de tree, right pon yu head an’ “brap” just so, yu dead!
    Commendation to Ms.Bique-Charles on being selected for this highly powerful meeting of the minds. I look forward with great anticipation to your usual excellent reporting post Meeting.
    Reply
    • Family June 27, 2025, 8:54 PM

      Keep up the good work Shermain Bique-Charles
      Reply
    • Teacher for Life June 30, 2025, 3:46 PM

      Relevance is not what motivates me but rather the desire for a better Antigua and Antiguans. Blessings..
      Reply
  • Naomi June 25, 2025, 11:44 AM

    Extravagant and lovely! Shermain not only make her name here but it’s even standing strong in the African nation! Give it up for Mrs. Bique-Charles
    Reply
  • Sammy June 25, 2025, 11:46 AM

    A very important meeting as they speak about the African/Caribbean relationship! Commendations to Antigua.news
    Reply
  • Apex Jones June 25, 2025, 12:16 PM

    Seems like Antigua.news was the only local media house that was invited.
    My girl enjoy the trip and experience
    Reply
    • Antiguan June 27, 2025, 8:56 PM

      She continues to make us proud. Big up Antigua.news
      Reply

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