The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has officially announced the forthcoming 2023 edition of the annual Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF), scheduled to run from November 3rd to November 12th.
During a press conference held on Thursday in Lagos, Mr. Leye Kupoluyi, Chairman of the Trade Promotion Board at LCCI, shared exciting details about the 37th edition of the LITF, which carries the theme “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value.” Notably, this year marks LCCI’s 135th anniversary, and they have planned a series of specialised fairs to celebrate the occasion.
Kupoluyi mentioned that the 2023 LITF will kick off with an opening ceremony led by President Bola Tinubu. The event will feature a wide array of specialised fairs, including an Entertainment Village, Children’s Corner, Tech Hub, Africa Hall, Lagos Island Connect, United Asia International Exhibition, and LCCI Mentees.
Recognising the significant contribution of the creative and entertainment industry to Nigeria’s economy, Kupoluyi emphasised the importance of the Entertainment Village. This dedicated space will provide a platform to showcase Nigerian music, fashion, food, arts, and culture. LCCI is actively collaborating with key stakeholders in the creative and entertainment sector to bring this project to life.
For the younger attendees, the Children’s Corner promises a delightful experience with food, drinks, music, games, and quizzes. The LITF Tech Hub will host technopreneurs and tech enthusiasts from the telecoms, software, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sectors, allowing them to exhibit their innovative products and services.
In a significant development, around 200 exhibitors from China will participate in the LITF for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic three years ago. Moreover, invitations have been extended to nearly all 54 African countries, emphasising the fair’s continental reach.
Kupoluyi also highlighted the involvement of the United Asia Exhibition Company, which is coordinating three distinct trade exhibitions at the event, encouraging Nigerian businesses to explore commercial agreements and distributorship deals.
One of the fair’s perennial attractions, the Japanese Hall organized by the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), will offer a three-day free entry for visitors. Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State, will preside over the closing ceremony.
The 2023 LITF is generously sponsored by United Bank of Africa Plc. (UBA), Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), United Asia International Exhibition Co. Ltd., New Home Distribution Africa Ltd. (distributors of Scanfrost and Sony Products in Nigeria), Dangote Group, FEDAN Investment Ltd, Lifemate Nigeria Ltd., Rite Foods, several Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), among other partners.
Stay tuned for what promises to be an exceptional LITF, as it aims to be the best in its 37-year history.
