Fidelity Bank Plc is set to underscore the role of financial technology in strengthening trade between the United States and Africa.

The bank announced it will host a panel session titled “Digital Railroads: Powering U.S.–Africa Commerce Through Fintech” at the upcoming Fidelity Nigeria International Trade and Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, USA.

The discussion will examine how fintech is transforming cross-border trade through seamless payment systems, improved access to finance, and expanded financial inclusion across Africa and the diaspora.

Panelists include former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Aisha Ahmad; Payaza Africa Founder, Seyi Ebenezer; and Sawport CEO, Charles Oligbo.

Speaking ahead of the event, Isaiah Ndukwe, Divisional Head of Agric. and Exports at Fidelity Bank, emphasized fintech’s critical role in unlocking Africa’s trade potential:

“The African Continental Free Trade Area is projected to boost intra-African trade by more than 50 percent by 2030. However, issues such as fragmented payment systems, currency conversion challenges, and limited access to trade finance continue to hinder growth.

Fintechs are strategically positioned to close these gaps by enabling low-cost real-time payments, providing alternative financing for SMEs, creating digital identities for exporters, and supporting diaspora remittances and investments. This is why fintech is central to our conversations at FNITCC Atlanta.”

Organized in partnership with AFRICON, a leading global platform for African innovators and changemakers, the event is expected to draw more than 3,000 participants, including investors, trade agencies, exporters, and diaspora professionals. Trade and investment deals valued at over $400 million are projected.

The African Development Bank estimates that Africa’s fintech revenues could reach $30 billion by 2025 — a sign that digital finance is not only enabling transactions but also shaping the future of global trade.