The inaugural Lagos Mainland Trade Fair concluded successfully, empowering local entrepreneurs with essential export skills and international market knowledge. The Nigerian Export Promotions Council (NEPC) played a pivotal role in enhancing participants’ export capabilities during the two-day event held at Yard 158, Kudirat Abiola Way, Ikeja.
NEPC Officials Provide Comprehensive Export Training
Nancy Okpa and Olamide Olatunde, Senior Trade Officers from NEPC, equipped approximately 100 entrepreneurs with step-by-step export procedures and crucial insights into international standards compliance. The training sessions focused on practical knowledge necessary for successful international trade ventures.
Event curator Monalisa Abimbola Aze, a lawyer-turned-entrepreneur behind Mona Matthews, expressed gratitude for the export capability development, noting that vendors would now feel “more confident and equipped to navigate the exportation process.” She emphasized how exportation enables business expansion and global market access.
Collaborative Efforts Boost Non-Oil Export Initiatives
Olori Janet Afolabi, Publisher and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, who collaborated on the event, commended NEPC’s efforts to reduce Nigeria’s economic vulnerability to oil price fluctuations through non-oil export promotion. She highlighted the potential for increased foreign exchange earnings through exportation.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) also participated, sensitizing entrepreneurs about product registration requirements. Vendors reported increased visibility, valuable networking connections, and potential business opportunities from the fair.
Enobong Ezekiel, CEO of Coreal8, praised the vibrant atmosphere that allowed effective service showcasing. The event featured diverse sectors including fashion, food, lifestyle, technology, and beauty, with entertainment and food courts creating a festive environment that attracted notable visitors like gospel musician Tope Alabi.