The Lagos International Trade Fair 2025 officially opened on July 7th, 2025, at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, under the inspiring theme “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value.” Running through July 16th, this year’s edition once again brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders, policymakers, and international stakeholders, reaffirming its position as one of Africa’s most significant platforms for trade, investment, and collaboration.
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The opening ceremony set the tone for a week of meaningful exchange and partnership, reflecting the fair’s enduring role in fostering innovation, enterprise, and economic integration across Africa.
In his opening address, the President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr Gabriel Idahosa, FCA, highlighted that this year’s Lagos International Trade Fair comes at a pivotal moment as Nigeria begins to show signs of economic stabilisation.
He stated that, “This year’s fair holds special significance as Nigeria navigates an era of economic stabilisation, marked by improvements in key indicators such as a decline in inflation, a rate cut on the monetary policy rate, a stable exchange rate, and targeted policy reforms across several sectors. As an incubator of ideas and a catalyst for commerce, the Lagos International Trade Fair serves as a beacon of opportunity, providing enterprises with a platform to showcase resilience-driven solutions, explore synergies, and drive sustainable growth in Nigeria and the wider region.”
Mr Idahosa emphasised the fair’s role in promoting business growth, fostering partnerships, and encouraging innovation, noting an expected attendance of about 500,000 visitors and over 2,000 exhibitors. He further highlighted the fair’s economic contribution through job creation and spending, particularly during the setup phase, while drawing attention to key features such as the Tech Hub and Africa Hall, which continue to drive digital transformation and intra-African trade.
Representing the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Kaliru Celia, who oversees Economic Affairs and Agriculture, spoke passionately about the importance of regional cooperation and integration among ECOWAS member states.
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He underscored the need to deepen collaboration and overcome structural obstacles that hinder trade and investment within the region, stating that, “The growth of Africa will be powered by the growth that takes place in Africa’s major cities.” Celia’s remarks emphasised that the development of key urban centres like Lagos will play a defining role in shaping Africa’s economic trajectory.
Delivering the Keynote Address on behalf of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, called on participants to approach the fair with imagination and ambition.
He urged exhibitors and attendees to look beyond transactions and product showcases, noting that, “Let this not be a fair of products but a fair of possibilities. Every partnership formed here is a step towards shared possibilities.” He further encouraged all participants to reimagine the fair as “a launchpad for enterprise, a network for trade, and a commitment to shared prosperity.” His address echoed the fair’s theme, underscoring its broader mission of innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth.
In his closing remarks, Prince Abimbola Olashore expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the success of this year’s fair. He noted that the 2025 edition demonstrated “a deepened interest in sustainability and innovation,” and described the Lagos International Trade Fair as “an enduring testament to what is possible when local and international stakeholders work together.”
As the event concluded with the singing of the Nigerian National Anthem, the atmosphere was filled with optimism, unity, and a renewed commitment to collaboration.
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The Lagos International Trade Fair 2025 was not merely an exhibition of products and services; it was a celebration of innovation, partnership, and shared progress. As Africa continues to redefine its economic future, the fair remains a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when businesses, institutions, and nations come together to connect, create, and grow.
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