The President and Chairman of the Council of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, FCA, officially declared open the 39th edition of the Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Banquet Hall, Lagos. The ceremony, graced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, captains of industry, and international partners, marked another major milestone in Nigeria’s economic and industrial calendar.
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Held under the theme “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value,” the 2025 Trade Fair reaffirms the LCCI’s enduring commitment to fostering enterprise, building regional trade linkages, and promoting sustainable economic development.
A Platform for Economic Cooperation and Value Creation
In his address, Mr. Idahosa expressed profound appreciation to the Federal Government and Lagos State Government for their consistent participation and support over the years. He emphasized that the Lagos International Trade Fair has become a vital platform for showcasing investment opportunities, strengthening public-private collaboration, and advancing the nation’s economic diversification agenda.
“The government’s participation in the fair is a tangible demonstration of its commitment to empowering the private sector to produce for local consumption and export,” he noted.
He also extended gratitude to the media, acknowledging their critical role in amplifying the fair’s vision, achievements, and growing global influence over nearly four decades.
Strengthened Partnerships and International Collaboration
Mr. Idahosa commended the sponsors, partners, and exhibitors whose consistent investment and participation have contributed to the growth and prestige of the trade fair. He highlighted that the 2025 edition promises to be the most diverse yet, showcasing innovation, entrepreneurship, and international cooperation.
The fair, which runs from November 7 to 16, 2025, is expected to attract over 500,000 visitors and feature more than 2,000 exhibitors from Nigeria, Africa, and around the world.
“This year’s fair leaps forward in scale, design, and diversity,” Idahosa said. “We have introduced a multi-exhibition model that allows visitors to explore distinct sectors of opportunity within a single vibrant ecosystem.”
Nigeria’s Economic Outlook: Signs of Stability and Growth
Reflecting on Nigeria’s economic landscape, the LCCI President noted that the 2025 fair comes at a time when the country is witnessing encouraging signs of stabilization — including easing inflation, improved exchange rate stability, and targeted reforms aimed at revitalizing key sectors.
He emphasized that the fair remains a beacon of opportunity for enterprises to showcase resilience-driven solutions, explore new synergies, and drive sustainable growth in the post-reform era.
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Innovation, Digital Transformation, and African Integration
A major highlight of this year’s event is the Tech Hub, dedicated to showcasing Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital and technology ecosystem. The Hub features innovators in telecommunications, software, and ICT — sectors Mr. Idahosa described as “the fastest-growing engines of our economy.”
Another key feature is the Africa Hall, supported by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), designed to strengthen intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). The hall provides a platform for African entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and advance a unified vision of continental prosperity.
Global Participation: China and Japan Among Major Exhibitors
The 2025 fair further reinforces Nigeria’s international trade relations with over 100 exhibitors from China, represented by United Asia International Exhibition Co. Ltd, and another 100 exhibitors from Japan under the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). Both delegations are showcasing innovations across sectors such as automotive parts, tools, textiles, and technology.
Mr. Idahosa encouraged Nigerian entrepreneurs to forge trade partnerships and distributorship deals with these international exhibitors, strengthening local value chains and expanding market reach.
Tangible Economic Impact and Social Inclusion
According to preliminary data from the pre-fair survey, the event has already injected approximately ₦250 million into the local economy during the setup phase and created jobs for 280 local artisans — a reflection of the fair’s role as a catalyst for economic stimulation and employment generation even before its official commencement.
He also reaffirmed that entry remains free for all visitors, a policy sustained since 2022 to promote inclusivity and public participation. Enhanced security arrangements have been implemented to ensure a safe and engaging experience for exhibitors and attendees alike.
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A Call for Collaboration and Continuity
Mr. Idahosa extended heartfelt appreciation to the Trade Promotion Board and the LCCI organizing team for their dedication and professionalism in sustaining what he called “a legacy event of the Chamber.”
“I see this year’s trade fair igniting new ideas, creating lasting partnerships, and serving as a testament to the power of unity in pursuing economic transformation,” he concluded.
The Lagos International Trade Fair continues to stand as West Africa’s premier business exhibition, a vital convergence point for local and international stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and create lasting value for Nigeria’s economy.
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