Lagos Set to Host Nigeria’s Premier SME Trade Fair with ₦5 Billion Sales Target
Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government, in partnership with Naija Brand Chick (NBC), is gearing up to host the 2025 Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair, Nigeria’s largest SME commerce event, with an ambitious ₦5 billion sales target and over 220 vendors expected to participate. Scheduled for April 11–13 at the Federal Palace Hotel’s Balmoral Hall in Victoria Island, the three-day fair aims to merge entertainment, business growth, and financial empowerment for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Government Backing for SME Growth
Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, emphasized the state’s commitment to fostering economic development through initiatives like the trade fair.
“Tourism is not just about leisure—it’s a catalyst for trade, job creation, and economic empowerment,” Aregbe stated. “This event aligns with our administration’s goals of reducing poverty, supporting SMEs, and bridging inequality gaps.”
Key government-backed features for this year’s edition include:
- Online Deals Spot: Expanding accessibility beyond the physical venue.
- Discounted Shopping: Exclusive deals to attract buyers and boost sales.
- Lagos Corner: A dedicated space for small businesses with limited capital to participate for free.
NBC CEO Highlights Fair’s Expanding Impact
Nelly Agbogu, CEO of Naija Brand Chick, expressed enthusiasm about the fair’s potential to transform Nigeria’s SME landscape.
“Lagos is the heartbeat of African commerce, and this fair proves that with the right platform, businesses can thrive,” Agbogu said. “Last year’s edition was a game-changer, and in 2025, we’re raising the bar with more opportunities for vendors to connect with customers, access funding, and scale their enterprises.”
What’s New in 2025?
This year’s edition introduces several innovations to maximize vendor success:
- Business Masterclasses & Workshops: Expert-led sessions on scaling SMEs.
- Financial Inclusion Initiatives: Grants and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs.
- Celebrity & Influencer Appearances: Boosting brand visibility and engagement.
- Cultural Showcases & Giveaways: Enhancing buyer participation and sales.
Building on 2024’s Success
The 2024 fair set a strong precedent, with vendors reporting significant sales boosts and networking opportunities. The introduction of the Sanwo-Naira—a promotional currency—and the Lagos Corner initiative were particularly impactful, enabling under-resourced businesses to gain exposure.
With increased government support and private-sector collaboration, the 2025 Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair is poised to become West Africa’s premier SME marketplace, driving economic growth and entrepreneurial success.
