The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with Naija Brand Chick, is hosting the second edition of the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair, staring today.
Speaking during a meeting with SMEs, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe reiterated Governor’s commitment to empowering SMEs through forward-thinking platforms that merge innovation with opportunity.
He stated that the initiative goes beyond entertainment, focusing on value creation, boosting trade, and empowering local businesses to scale.
According to him, the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair is a testament to the belief that tourism and commerce are two sides of the same coin, capable of unlocking the full economic potential of Lagos.
Mr. Aregbe also reflected on the impact of previous editions, sharing success stories, including a vendor who sold over 500 plates of Jollof rice in just three days.
He also expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for his continued support for the creative and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Lagos.
On his part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, emphasised the importance of professionalism and excellence.
He described the trade fair as a global showcase of the Lagos entrepreneurial spirit, encouraging vendors to be intentional about product quality, packaging, and customer service.
He noted that the goal is to build businesses that will evolve from tens of orders to thousands.
Convener of the fair, Mrs. Nelly Agbogu, popularly known as Naija Brand Chick, highlighted the journey and growing influence of the initiative.
She explained that the platform was launched in 2018 to bridge the visibility gap for entrepreneurs and has since expanded to 22 states across Nigeria, as well as international cities like London, Houston, and Accra, Ghana.
. She reaffirmed that Lagos remains the commercial heartbeat of the project and that the fair is about more than sales – it is about creating global pathways for homegrown brands.
Lagosians and visitors alike are invited to come experience the very best of Nigerian enterprise, culture, and creativity – all under one roof.
