The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has trained entrepreneurs on export readiness during the maiden edition of the Lagos Mainland Trade Fair, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools needed to expand their businesses beyond Nigeria.
At the event, Senior Trade Officers Nancy Okpa and Olamide Olatunde guided vendors through step-by-step export procedures and stressed the importance of complying with international trade standards.
Expanding Global Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
Monalisa Aze, Curator of the fair and Chief Executive Officer of Mona Matthews, hailed the training as timely and impactful.
“Vendors will be more confident and equipped to navigate the exportation process. Through exportation, entrepreneurs can expand their businesses and access global markets,” Aze said.
Co-host of the fair, media personality and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, Janet Afolabi, also praised NEPC’s intervention, noting its potential to diversify Nigeria’s economy.
“Through efforts like this, there will be increased foreign exchange earnings. It will also reduce Nigeria’s economic vulnerability to oil price fluctuations by promoting non-oil exports,” she said.
Support from Regulators and Industry Leaders
Officials from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) were present to sensitise entrepreneurs on the importance of product registration, a key requirement for accessing international markets.
The fair drew a diverse audience of vendors and guests, including renowned gospel singer Tope Alabi, who added colour to the event.
Expressing delight at the fair’s success, Aze said:
“I am overwhelmed by the success of the event. We are grateful for the enthusiasm from vendors who showcased their products and services with passion. The event has shown that with determination and hard work, we can create a lasting impact and provide opportunities for growth and expansion of businesses.”
A Platform for Growth and Exposure
Afolabi described the debut fair as a breakthrough, highlighting the collaborative spirit among entrepreneurs.
“It exceeded my expectations. It was incredible to see entrepreneurs come together to celebrate enterprise and innovation. The energy was amazing. We look forward to building on this momentum,” she said.
Vendors also commended the fair for creating visibility and connections. Enobong Ezekiel, Chief Executive Officer of Coreal8, said the platform offered valuable exposure.
“I am honoured to have been a part of this experience. I was able to connect with many customers and partners. The organisers did an incredible job of creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere that allowed us to showcase our services,” Ezekiel said.
The Lagos Mainland Trade Fair has now positioned itself as an emerging hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and export readiness, promising greater opportunities for SMEs in subsequent editions.
