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| L-R: Hon. Fatoki Abiodun, Operations and Logistics Manager; Hon. Tobun Mustainu Abiodun, Chairman, House Committee on Commerce, Lagos State House of Assembly, representing the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudasiru Ajayi Obasa; and Henry Anwansedo, Project Lead, Eko International Trade Expo, at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Eko International Trade Expo in Lagos. |
The inaugural Eko International Trade Expo 2026 has opened in Lagos with calls for stronger government-private sector collaboration, improved access to finance and reforms that can make it easier for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to operate and grow.
The five-day expo, organised by Momentum Trading Enterprise, brings together entrepreneurs, exhibitors, investors, government representatives and industry stakeholders to promote trade, investment, innovation and business development.
With the theme, “Driving Inclusive Growth and Investment Opportunity Through Trade and Innovation,” the expo provides businesses with opportunities to showcase their products, connect with potential customers and investors, explore new markets and develop partnerships.
Speaking at the opening, Project Lead of the expo, Henry Anwansedo, said the initiative was partly inspired by his participation in a 2019 programme in Japan focused on finance and market opportunities for SMEs.
He said the experience highlighted the need for platforms that connect Nigerian businesses with finance, information, markets and potential investors.
Anwansedo also called for practical improvements in Nigeria's business environment, saying ease of doing business should be reflected in the everyday experiences of entrepreneurs.
He identified digital government processes, transparent regulations, efficient logistics, reliable infrastructure and improved access to finance as areas requiring continued attention.
“The private sector is ready to partner with governments. We are not asking governments to do business for us. We are asking governments to create an environment in which businesses can do business successfully,” he said.
The Executive Chairman of Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA, Agbaje Lukmon Abiodun, who delivered a goodwill message, said strengthening local enterprise was important to sustainable and inclusive economic development.
Representing the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, Hon. Thobun Mustanu Abiodun described Lagos as a major commercial gateway and urged participants to use the expo to build relationships and expand their businesses.
He also encouraged entrepreneurs to maintain integrity in their dealings, telling participants: “Let profits never erase our values.”
The Special Guest, Elder Andrew Okunuga, urged entrepreneurs, particularly young business owners, to embrace networking and cooperation rather than waiting for government to provide every solution.
The organisers said they intend to develop the Eko International Trade Expo into a long-term platform for trade, investment and business collaboration in Lagos and across Africa.
The five-day event is expected to continue with exhibitions, business connections and discussions around opportunities and challenges facing Nigerian enterprises.
