Nigerian business leaders have targeted Caribbean expansion through the historic GUBA Awards in Barbados.
Glamtush reports that Nigerian entrepreneurs and investors are spearheading a new wave of Africa-Caribbean economic partnerships as the GUBA Awards prepares for its first-ever Caribbean edition in Barbados this November, with Nigerian business representatives dominating early registration numbers.
The three-day summit, taking place November 10-12, 2025, marks the 16th installment of the distinguished GUBA Awards and represents a watershed moment for trade cooperation between Africa’s most populous economy and the 15-nation Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Organized in collaboration with Barbados’ Office of the Prime Minister, the event seeks to forge concrete commercial relationships within a multi-billion-dollar trade corridor.
Strategic Theme and High-Level Participation
Under the banner “Reclaiming Our Atlantic Destiny: Build. Connect. Renew,” the summit will bring together heads of state, business executives, investors, and government officials. Notable Nigerian participants include Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa, and prominent industrialist Femi Otedola.
“Nigerian businesses have dominated African markets and proven themselves on the global stage, but the Caribbean represents an underexploited opportunity—44 million consumers with substantial buying power, cultural connections, and an English-speaking business climate that aligns with our entrepreneurial spirit,” stated Lady Dentaa Amoateng, GUBA’s president and founder.
Solving Logistics Challenges
To overcome connectivity hurdles, GUBA has arranged a chartered direct flight from Accra to Barbados, enabling Lagos-based business leaders to avoid conventional routing through European or North American hubs. The charter service has already achieved 70% capacity, with Nigerian executives claiming most seats.
The initiative comes at an opportune moment as Nigeria pursues economic diversification beyond petroleum while Caribbean nations seek alternatives to established trade relationships. Both regions recognize complementary strengths across fintech, entertainment, agriculture, fashion, renewable energy, and professional services sectors.
Core Business Programming
The flagship two-day Trade and Investment Forum will enable partnerships across key industries. Nigerian fintech innovation addresses Caribbean banking infrastructure needs, Nollywood and Afrobeats discover alignment with Caribbean entertainment platforms, and Nigerian producers view the region as an entry point to broader Latin American markets.
Business Benefits and Networking
Nigerian executives will participate in curated matchmaking sessions, regulatory briefings, formal memorandum of understanding ceremonies, and an exclusive Diplomatic Reception at Ilaro Court—the Prime Minister’s official residence—providing direct access to Caribbean ministers and trade representatives.
GUBA Awards has a tradition of recognizing Nigerian achievement, with previous honorees including Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization. This year’s Cultural Showcase will include a Hollywood premiere featuring acclaimed Nigerian actress Sola Sobowale.
Registration Details
With charter flight capacity approaching full and event attendance being limited, Nigerian business professionals are encouraged to register immediately. Registration provides access to all forum sessions, the cultural showcase, the awards ceremony, and the diplomatic reception.
Nigerian registrations and charter flight reservations: Contact Stephanie Busari at Stephanie@sbbmedia.com or visit www.gubaawards.com/travel.
“Nigerian CEOs should be asking not ‘Why Barbados?’ but ‘Why didn’t we pursue this earlier?'” Lady Dentaa Amoateng remarked. “Nigerian enterprises must be present where these discussions occur, where these agreements take shape. This November, that location is Barbados.”
About GUBA
GUBA (Grow, Unite, Build Africa) advances trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange connecting Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Media Contact: GUBA – Nigeria | Email: Stephanie@sbbmedia.com | Web: www.gubaawards.com
