As part of the preparation towards its upcoming annual event, Lagos International Trade Fair, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called on the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to consider opening the borders for exhibitors coming to the fair from other West African countries.
Many traders and exhibitors from other West African countries usually participate in the 10-day event by showcasing their latest products and services and examining recent market trends and opportunities. The 2019 edition is scheduled to start on November 1, 2019.
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According to the LCCI Director-General, Muda Yusuf, the exhibitors who usually come by road through the borders would be affected and they might not be able to attend. He said they had held talks with the NCS and ONSA but there was no approval even though the response was favourable.
Yusuf emphasized the need for exhibitors from other countries to be present as he said that there would be a huge loss if they are not allowed.
“The loss will be huge if it is not considered because this year, we made provision for a special hall for African countries. Some of them have made payments in anticipation, to participate in the fair.”
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What you should know: The trade fair will be declared open by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Lagos.
It is the largest international trade fair in Nigeria which is supervised by LCCI in collaboration with other stakeholders. The fair, according to the Managing Director of MD Perspective Nigeria Limited, Morenike Dele-Alimi, would partner with the United Asia International Exhibition Group (UAEC) and others. It would host over 1,000 exhibitors comprising local and international participants.
