The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) played a central role at the maiden edition of the Lagos Mainland Trade Fair, taking bold steps to strengthen the export capacity of Nigerian entrepreneurs.
At the fair, NEPC officials trained vendors on international trade procedures, providing step-by-step guidance on exportation and stressing the importance of meeting global standards and compliance requirements. The sessions gave entrepreneurs practical knowledge to expand their businesses beyond local borders and confidently participate in international trade.
The two-day event, held on September 6 and 7 in Lagos, attracted about 100 vendors who showcased a wide range of goods and services to a large audience. The fair provided both learning opportunities and a marketplace for small businesses eager to grow.
In addition to NEPC, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) engaged vendors on product registration requirements. Officials emphasized that certification is essential for both local acceptance and international market entry, reinforcing the need for quality assurance in driving non-oil exports.
Organisers of the fair described it as a huge success, noting that the enthusiasm of vendors and the turnout of participants surpassed expectations. They highlighted that the event created a platform not only for trade but also for collaboration, learning, and long-term business opportunities.
For many vendors, the fair was both rewarding and transformative. Participants noted that they were able to connect with new customers, partners, and investors, while also gaining the skills and knowledge required to pursue export opportunities.
By combining business exhibitions with practical export readiness training, the Lagos Mainland Trade Fair demonstrated how targeted support can empower entrepreneurs, strengthen non-oil exports, and open new pathways for economic growth in Nigeria.
