The Lagos State Government on Tuesday announced the maiden edition of the Lagos Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Exclusive and Eko Round City Trade Fair 1.0, aimed at energizing grassroots commerce and strengthening local enterprise.
Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada-Ambrose, disclosed this during a news conference in Lagos. She explained that the event has been redesigned from the former Eko MSMEs Exclusive Trade Fair into a more inclusive commercial festival.
According to her, the initiative marks a significant step toward deepening grassroots trade, enhancing inter–Local Government Area (LGA) collaboration, and expanding opportunities for micro, small and medium-scale businesses.
The commissioner said the fair will bring together five LGAs—Surulere, Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Eti-Osa and Apapa—creating a unified platform for enterprise, culture, and community engagement.
“This Fair is not just an exhibition; it is a celebration of enterprise, resilience, creativity and community. The idea of the ‘Round City’ reflects our determination to link the diverse energies of Lagos into one inclusive marketplace,” she said.
Bada-Ambrose emphasized that MSMEs remain the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, accounting for over 96 percent of businesses nationwide. The fair, she said, will provide traders, artisans and growing businesses with opportunities to showcase products, network, learn and scale.
She added that the event will feature mentorship sessions, investor linkages and support from relevant agencies to foster business growth. “As SMEs grow, they create jobs for youths, women, artisans and families,” she noted.
The commissioner also described the fair as the beginning of a long-term cycle of structured support for MSMEs, rather than a one-off intervention. “Our vision is to build not only a megacity, but a people’s city where every trader, artisan, youth and family has a place. The future of Lagos lies in our collective hands,” she said.
Speaking at the briefing, APC chieftain Mr. Fouad Oki said strengthening grassroots commerce is vital for both subnational and national development. He praised the initiative, expressing hope that residents will benefit and record high sales during the fair.
The trade fair, themed “Ajeparapo Fun Ipinle Eko,” will run from December 8 to 14 at the National Stadium, Surulere.