Lagos 37th Trade Fair holds as government promises enabling environment
By Felicia Nwosu
Africa’s most significant trade expos and renowned business hub, the Lagos International Trade Fair, has kicked off the 37th edition at the landmark Tafawa Balewa Square.
It will be a 10-day of exploring business growth, cultural exchange and exhibition of diverse brands and services from across the globe.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Lucia Shittu, Chief Executive Officer, Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board (TBSMB), re-emphasised the role of the government in fostering business growth, especially in providing necessary support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to ensure long-term success.
He affirmed that the Lagos International Trade Fair has long been a networking opportunity, a platform where businesses from around the world can connect to unlock their full economic potentials.
“In today’s globalized world, connectivity is key. It is through forging meaningful connections that businesses thrive. We stand on the threshold where innovation and technology are driving transformation at an unprecedented pace. As we navigate these uncharted waters, it is imperative that we stand united, leveraging our collective strength to build a prosperous future.
“Our small and medium-sized enterprises are the lifeblood of our economy. They are the engines that power our growth and innovation. It is our duty to provide them with the necessary support and resources they need to flourish and grow. Through targeted policies, access to finance, and capacity-building initiatives, we will empower these enterprises to reach new heights,” he said.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-olu, who was represented by Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medem, the Commissioner, Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperative, while expressing his passion and drive for a mega city, re-echoed his pledge towards ensuring conducive business environment for investments to thrive in the state.
“I believe it is time to do things differently in this state and in our country. This is a critical period in the world as we know it. The reality of the greatest commercial city has become a bigger and smarter city rather than the 21st century that we want to defend.
“So for us, we see the challenges as great opportunities for further investment, and our administration is not only working as citizens of each narrative, we are also ready to work with the investors to expand the infrastructure for the benefit of our businesses, and continue working with our state, our nation, and our people,” he said.
Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said that this year’s theme, “Navigating Economic Challenges”, underscores the determination of the Nigerian business community to overcome its many hurdles.
Noting that the fair has, over the years, grown to be another significant milestone in the economic life of Nigeria and the broader African continent, the LCCI President affirmed that Lagos, Africa’s fifth largest economy, finds itself at another critical juncture in Nigeria’s economic history.
“Nigeria’s economy, like many others, has been impacted by global economic shocks and geopolitical uncertainties. It calls upon us to acknowledge the difficulties we face while inspiring us to seek solutions, embrace new opportunities, and develop innovative strategies to foster economic growth.
“In spite of these challenges, we stand here today, showcasing the resilience of our people and our unwavering commitment to progress. We stand on the threshold of change, as Nigeria and Lagos State work tirelessly to diversify their economies, reduce dependency on oil, and pave the way for inclusive growth,” he said.
The organisers said in commemoration of the chamber’s 135th anniversary that shoppers will access the first 3 days free without any admission or entry fee starting from November 3rd to November 5th, 2023. The fair, which started on Nov. 3 will end on Nov. 12, 2023.
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