By Fabian Ekeruche
A prominent media practitioner and entrepreneur, Mrs Janet Mba-Afolabi, has called for more support for Nigerian entrepreneurs through local patronage of their products and services.
Afolabi, a CNN award-winning journalist and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, made the call in an interview on the sidelines of Lagos Mainland Trade Fair on Sunday in Lagos.
According to her, promoting African culture and encouraging local patronage will serve as drivers for economic growth.
She described trade fairs as one of the vital platforms that provided business visibility, cultural promotion and economic growth.
Mba-Afolabi, who showcased African heritage through elegant beads, adire fabrics, ankara designs and other locally-made cultural products, noted that she was passionate about promoting African cultures through trade.
“Instead of taking our money outside, we should find ways of making people come to Nigeria to spend their money.
“That way, we will boost our local economy,” she said.
As a collaborator in the fair, the award-winning journalist noted that the initiative was borne out of a shared vision with the convener, a lawyer-turned-entrepreneur, with over 20 years of experience in leather goods.
”Together we created the platform to help entrepreneurs showcase their products, network, attract potential investors and share knowledge on overcoming business challenges,” she stated.
Highlighting the benefits of trade fairs, Mba-Afolabi noted that buyers had the opportunities to purchase directly from entrepreneurs at discounted rates.
According to her, during trade fairs, entrepreneurs gain visibility and motivation through shared experiences.
”Even one trade fair can transform a business. Seeing is believing,” she stated.
On the obstacles facing entrepreneurs, Afolabi identified lack of finance as one of the challenges.
“Many business owners fall into debt due to difficulties in repayment of loans,” she said.
The Apomu queen urged entrepreneurs not to view trade fairs as profit-making ventures only, but also as opportunities for visibility, partnerships and long-term growth.
“The cost of securing a booth should not be a barrier. Entrepreneurs can partner and share the cost and still recover their investments.
“What matters is the access to visibility and opportunities that trade fairs provide,” she said.
She stated that the trade fair was designed as a gateway to business opportunities and platform for cultural and economic empowerment.
