The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) took a prominent role at the inaugural Lagos Mainland Trade Fair, advancing its mission to boost the export readiness of Nigerian entrepreneurs and enhance the nation’s participation in global markets.
During the fair, NEPC representatives provided intensive training sessions for vendors on the intricacies of international trade procedures. The training offered step-by-step guidance on the export process while underscoring the importance of adhering to global standards and compliance frameworks. These sessions were designed to equip business owners with the practical skills and confidence needed to scale their enterprises beyond domestic markets and engage effectively in international trade.
The two-day event, which ran on September 6 and 7 in Lagos, featured close to 100 vendors who displayed a diverse array of products and services before a wide and enthusiastic audience. Beyond showcasing, the fair served as both a learning ground and a vibrant marketplace for small-scale businesses determined to expand their operations.
Alongside NEPC’s interventions, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) also contributed by educating vendors on product registration requirements. Agency officials stressed that obtaining certification is not only vital for domestic acceptance but also a prerequisite for penetrating international markets. This guidance reinforced the significance of quality assurance in driving Nigeria’s non-oil export agenda.
Enjoying this article? Share it with your network!
Organizers of the event hailed it as an outstanding success, pointing to the high level of vendor enthusiasm and the impressive turnout of visitors, which far exceeded their initial expectations. They emphasized that the fair provided a platform that went beyond simple trade transactions to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and the creation of lasting business opportunities.
For several participants, the experience proved both beneficial and transformative. Vendors highlighted that they were able to connect with potential customers, investors, and partners, while simultaneously gaining the insights and tools required to pursue export-driven growth.
By blending product exhibitions with hands-on export training, the Lagos Mainland Trade Fair showcased the impact of targeted support in empowering entrepreneurs, promoting non-oil exports, and opening new avenues for Nigeria’s economic advancement.
