…Kicks off with 3,500 exhibitors

By Yinka Kolawole

The 2024 edition of the Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) kicked off on Friday, with over 3,500 exhibitors from more than 15 countries registered to participate.

The Fair with the theme, “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value”, is organised annually by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), and will run from November 1 to 10.

Declaring open the 10-day event at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said it is aimed at fostering economic growth by connecting businesses.

He stated: “In today’s world, connectivity is the backbone of growth. This Trade Fair is a testament to the undeniable power of partnerships. We are in an age where collaboration fuels innovation, and innovation ignites value.

“By providing a platform where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can meet with global corporations, where local manufacturers can showcase their products, and where tech innovators can demonstrate their ideas, this Trade Fair brings together the tools, networks, and resources that are essential for value creation.”

In his welcome address, President of LCCI, Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, said this year’s fair holds special significance as Nigeria navigates an era of economic adjustment marked by challenges and opportunities.

“As an incubator of ideas and a catalyst for commerce, LITF stands as a beacon of opportunity, offering enterprises the platform to showcase resilience-driven solutions, explore synergies, and drive sustainable growth in Nigeria and the wider region.

“This year, we anticipate an increase in attendance, with nearly a million visitors expected over the course of ten days.

“With over 3,500 exhibitors from more than 15 countries, we are committed to providing a dynamic platform that fosters business networking, explores new market opportunities, and encourages partnerships to generate value across the economy,” Idahosa stated.