The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in partnership with Naija Brand Chick, is set to host the second edition of the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair.
The programme is scheduled to take place from 11th to 13th April at the Balmoral Event Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island.
In preparation for this flagship event, a strategic vendor engagement session was held to inform, equip, and inspire participating small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).
This initiative reflects the state’s steadfast commitment to leveraging tourism and the creative economy as catalysts for inclusive growth and sustainable development across Lagos.
Speaking at the session, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to empowering SMEs through visionary platforms that blend innovation with opportunity.
He emphasised that the initiative transcends entertainment, with a focus on value creation, trade enhancement, and empowering local businesses to scale sustainably.
According to Mr Aregbe, the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair exemplifies the belief that tourism and commerce are intrinsically linked, with the power to unlock the full economic potential of Lagos.
He also reflected on the success of previous editions, citing compelling stories such as a vendor who sold over 500 plates of Jollof rice within just three days.
He noted that some vendors achieved in those three days what they had struggled to accomplish in six months, highlighting the transformative impact of the platform.
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He expressed his appreciation to the governor for his continued support of Lagos’ creative and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Additionally, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, stressed the importance of professionalism and excellence.
He described the trade fair as a global showcase of Lagos’ entrepreneurial spirit, urging vendors to prioritise product quality, packaging, and customer service.
He added that the ultimate goal is to nurture businesses that grow from fulfilling tens of orders to processing thousands.
However, the convener of the fair, Nelly Agbogu—popularly known as Naija Brand Chick—shared insights into the fair’s evolution and rising influence.
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 such as London, Houston, and Accra.
She reiterated that Lagos remains the commercial heartbeat of the initiative, stressing that the fair is about more than sales—it is about creating global pathways for homegrown brands.
Agbogu also revealed the fair’s ambitious post-event targets, stating that participating businesses are expected to generate over ₦500 million in sales and lead over the three-day event.
She added that at least 70% of vendors are projected to increase their brand visibility and customer retention through strategic exposure and networking opportunities.
“In the vendor strategy session, participants shared innovative plans to stand out at the fair—from flash sales and curated bundles to giveaways and engaging digital content.
“Some vendors also highlighted the use of promotional skits and storytelling to attract traffic and connect with their audience,” she said.
With hundreds of curated vendors, live music, interactive brand showcases, and family-friendly activities, the Lagos Tourism NBC Trade Fair is poised to be a standout event on Lagos’ 2025 cultural calendar.
Residents and visitors alike are invited to experience the very best of Nigerian enterprise, culture, and creativity—all under one roof.
Tags: Tourism NBC Trade Fair, Lagos State, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, Nelly Agbogu, Naija Brand Chick, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Idris Aregbe.
