Lagos International Trade Fair 2025 aims for 1 million visitors, featuring global exhibitors, ECOWAS at 50, and new tech and cultural showcases

Set to run from 7 to 16 November at Tafawa Balewa Square, the 2025 Lagos International Trade Fair is shaping up to be the most ambitious edition in its nearly 40-year history, as organisers target an unprecedented one million visitors.

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Unveiled by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) during a press conference in Lagos on Thursday, the 39th edition promises a wide array of attractions, cutting-edge exhibitions, and landmark international partnerships.

According to Abimbola Olashore, LCCI Vice President and Chairman of the Trade Promotion Board, preparations began as early as April to boost visibility and ensure the ambitious attendance goal is met.

“Historically, we record about 350,000 visitors annually. This year, we are determined to surpass that and hit the one million mark,” Olashore declared.

Over 2,000 exhibitors are expected, with confirmed delegates from 15 countries, building on the momentum from previous years.

This edition will host major partners like UBA, Dangote Industries, Leadway Assurance, Flour Mills of Nigeria, and JETRO, reflecting the fair’s growing international appeal.

A major highlight is the ECOWAS at 50 celebration, which will spotlight regional integration and economic progress. Olashore said the collaboration with ECOWAS was “a strategic partnership to mark a shared vision for West Africa’s future.”

New additions to the 2025 programme include the African International Chocolate Show and the International Paper Publishing and Printing Expo, broadening the fair’s appeal across more industries.

The Japanese Hall, curated by the Japan External Trade Organisation, will offer a blend of tech and pop culture exhibitions, while a large food court will serve African and international cuisines, sponsored by Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc.

A special Black Friday event on 14 November will spotlight women entrepreneurs and offer discounted sales alongside celebrity engagements to draw wider participation.

All visitors and exhibitors will enjoy free entry, with Olashore assuring that advanced security measures are in place for the entire duration of the fair.

“We are encouraging Lagosians and visitors to take full advantage—whether for year-end shopping or business networking,” he said.

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President Bola Tinubu is expected to declare the fair open, while Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will close the event on 16 November, rounding off what promises to be a landmark commercial and cultural gathering.

Source: Read more at theheute.com.ng