BY ETOP EKANEM

THE Lagos  International Trade Fair Complex is set to host specialized trade exhibitions this year and in the years to come.

Addressing newsmen at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Mr. Mackson Davis, Corporate Affairs Manager of Aulic Nigeria Limited, managers of Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, said  the multi purposed built exhibition centre had been undergoing  renovations and re-development works to bring it back to its international standard.

He said due to mishandling and under utilisation in the past, the complex degenerated into a sorry state, adding that after the concessioning of the complex, the concessionaire Aulic Nigeria Limited embarked on massive works to restore its lost glory.

He said: “For a long time, the works being done there appeared not to be visible or noticeable but I am happy and proud to say that the effect of the works was beginning to surface with admirable impact. The beauty of the complex especially the exhibition area is once more coming out.

Asked why the Lagos Chamber of Commerce is hosting their annual trade fair somewhere outside the complex this year, Davis explained that the Lagos Chamber of Commerce was not ready for changes which Aulic Nigeria Limited is bringing into the complex, especially in the use of standard exhibition stands/cubicles as against the use of wooden shanty structures which the Lagos Chamber of Commerce has been used to.

Davis maintained that the change of venue by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce for their trade fair this year was a blessing in disguise for Aulic because it accords the company the time and opportunity to complete the work they are doing at the complex as well as to put the complex to maximum use by hosting other trade fairs and exhibitions.

For yours, Lagos International Trade Fair organized by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce has been the only major event taking place in the complex. This will not be the case any more. An all year round trade events schedule has been drawn by Aulic Nigeria Limited to put the complex to maximum utilization and attract the deserved benefits to Nigeria.