The 36th edition of the Enugu International Trade Fair is set to showcase a blend of global and indigenous businesses, with participants from countries such as China, India, Tunisia, Ghana, and Nigeria. Over 200 indigenous companies will be participating, marking a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s industrial and economic growth. The event, organized by the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (ECCIMA), is scheduled to take place from April 4 for a week, with the theme: “Developing Nigeria’s Industrial Sector/SMEs for Economic Advancement and Global Recognition.”
According to Mr. Uche Mba, the Director-General of ECCIMA, the fair will feature more than 100 indigenous Nigerian companies, along with representatives from over 120 Medium, Small, and Nano Enterprises (MSMEs). These businesses will have the opportunity to showcase their products, services, and innovative ideas to a broad audience of potential investors, partners, and customers. The fair aims to serve as a platform for Nigeria’s businesses to connect with global partners and enhance the recognition of the country’s industries in the international market.
The participation of international companies, including Chinese, Indian, Tunisian, and Ghanaian businesses, highlights the growing global interest in Nigeria’s industrial and trade sectors. Mr. Mba revealed that these foreign companies have already confirmed their attendance and are preparing to set up their stands at the trade fair. The inclusion of such global players reflects the potential of Nigeria’s trade environment and its role in the larger West African economic space.
“We are particularly excited that companies from China, India, Tunisia, and Ghana have shown keen interest in participating in this year’s fair,” said Mba. “This is a testament to the growing recognition of Nigeria’s position as a key player in Africa’s economic landscape. For example, the High Commissioner of Ghana recently sent an official to inspect the premises of the fair to ensure everything was in order for their companies to participate. This indicates the high level of international confidence in this year’s fair.”
Furthermore, the fair will also feature over 200 indigenous Nigerian companies, including many from the West African sub-region, contributing to the fair’s goal of boosting local businesses and fostering stronger trade ties within Africa. Mr. Mba emphasized that the ECCIMA has been working closely with stakeholders, both local and international, to ensure that the event delivers meaningful results for all participants.
The ECCIMA has taken strategic steps to improve the quality and experience of the trade fair for exhibitors and visitors. A key development for this year’s event is the addition of a massive air-conditioned tent, the largest of its kind in the country, which will be used to accommodate exhibitors and ensure a comfortable experience despite the unpredictable weather conditions typical of the region. The new facility is part of ECCIMA’s broader efforts to improve the fair’s infrastructure and bring it in line with international standards.
“Last year, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Xavier Communications, a prominent marketing consulting firm in Nigeria. This collaboration was aimed at creating a more robust marketing plan to attract more reputable companies, and we are already seeing the results with the high level of interest from multinational organizations,” Mba explained. “Additionally, we are putting finishing touches on a new air-conditioned tent to provide exhibitors with a more comfortable environment. We are determined to restore the prestige of the Enugu International Trade Fair and ensure that everyone involved has a positive experience.”
In line with these improvements, the ECCIMA has also worked to ensure that the trade fair becomes a vital networking hub for businesses in Nigeria and beyond. The fair’s comprehensive strategy includes initiatives to create networking opportunities, engage industry leaders, and foster collaboration across various sectors. By showcasing the best of Nigerian industry, the trade fair aims to promote the country’s economic advancement and facilitate global recognition of its products and services.
The focus of this year’s theme, *“Developing Nigeria’s Industrial Sector/SMEs for Economic Advancement and Global Recognition,”* underlines the importance of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria. These enterprises play a vital role in the country’s economy, providing jobs and contributing to the nation’s GDP. With over 120 SMEs participating in the fair, this year’s event will serve as an important platform for these smaller businesses to showcase their products, build brand visibility, and forge business partnerships that could propel them to greater heights.
The fair is also expected to promote the development of Nigeria’s industrial sector by providing a stage for local manufacturers to connect with suppliers, distributors, and investors. As part of the ongoing efforts to boost the country’s industrial base, the event will highlight the importance of innovation, manufacturing, and sustainable business practices in driving economic progress.
“It is crucial that we continue to support our local businesses and provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive,” Mba said. “By showcasing their products at this trade fair, we are giving our SMEs a platform to reach a wider audience, create new business relationships, and access markets they might not have been able to reach otherwise.”
The fair also aligns with the Nigerian government’s goals of industrializing the country and fostering a more diverse and competitive economy. By drawing attention to the country’s industrial potential, the event seeks to contribute to the realization of these national objectives.
The Enugu International Trade Fair is poised to become a significant event for businesses in Nigeria and across the African continent. With participation from both local and international companies, the fair is set to foster cross-border collaboration, stimulate trade, and encourage the exchange of ideas among business leaders, innovators, and government officials. As Nigeria seeks to strengthen its position as a leading economy in Africa, events like the Enugu International Trade Fair play a critical role in shaping the future of the nation’s industrial sector.
With the addition of new infrastructure, improved marketing strategies, and enhanced participation from international stakeholders, the 36th Enugu International Trade Fair promises to be a landmark event. It provides a timely opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its growing industrial capacity and solidify its role as a hub for commerce and innovation in the global marketplace.
As businesses prepare for the event, the Enugu International Trade Fair is set to offer valuable insights, facilitate partnerships, and pave the way for new economic opportunities. For both local entrepreneurs and international investors, this year’s fair is expected to mark a new chapter in Nigeria’s industrial development and its growing role in the global economy.
