Lagos Launches MSME Trade Fair to Boost Local Economy

According to the commissioner, “beginning from next Monday, 8th to 14th December 2025, the National Stadium, Surulere will host not just a fair, but a celebration of enterprise, resilience, creativity, and community. This event brings together five vibrant Local Government Areas: Surulere, Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Eti-Osa, and Apapa, including associated Local Council Development Areas such as Apapa Iganmu, Eti-Osa East, Eti-Osa West, Iru-Victoria Island, Ikoyi-Obalende, Lagos Island West, Lagos Island East, Yaba, Coker Aguda and Itire Ikate, in a shared space where commerce, culture, and collaboration meet”.

“I come before you with immense pride, proud of what Lagos has become, proud of the dynamism of our MSMEs, and proud of the vision this Fair represents. Lagos is a city of many parts, many communities, and many dreams. The idea of the “Round City” reflects our collective resolve to unify these diverse localities, linking the energy of Lagos Island, the industrious spirit of Apapa, the vibrant heartbeat of Surulere, the lively bustle of Lagos Mainland, and the rapidly emerging business corridors of Eti-Osa, into one inclusive marketplace.”

Bada-Ambrose noted that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, MSMEs, remain the engine of the economy, accounting for about 96 percent of all businesses, contribute roughly half of our national GDP, and provide employment for as much as 84 to 87 percent of the working population, adding that Lagos, as Nigeria’s commercial powerhouse, reflects this reality even more strongly.

“Our State contributes over 30 percent to Nigeria’s total GDP, powered not only by corporates, but by millions of small and micro enterprises operating across our markets, streets, homes, and digital platforms. In 2024, the service sector, driven heavily by trade, made up over 90 percent of Lagos’ real GDP, with trade alone accounting for more than half of that figure in the second quarter. These facts speak clearly: when MSMEs thrive, Lagos thrives. And when Lagos thrives, Nigeria advances.”

Commissioner Folashade Bada Ambrose stated that the Fair is anchored on five important objectives.economic impact of the MSMEs trade fair to include:

1. Create inclusive marketplace for informal sector businesses

2. Provide capacity-building workshops (digital marketing, financial literacy)

3. Foster inter-LGA business collaboration

4. Offer family-friendly environment with children’s play area

5. Strengthen grassroots economic activity

Economic Impact

• MSMEs contribute 50% of Nigeria’s GDP and 87% of employment

• Lagos accounts for 30% of national GDP, with trade dominating its economy

• 2024 data shows trade sector contributed over 50% of Lagos’ Q2 GDP

Fair Features

• 500+ exhibition stalls (fashion, tech, food, crafts)

• Business clinics on registration and access to credit

• Networking zones for cross-LGA partnerships

• Special focus on women and youth entrepreneurs

” The collaboration zone brings entrepreneurs together to exchange ideas, form partnerships, and strengthen value chains across Lagos.
The benefits we expect from this Fair are far-reaching. By giving informal and micro-enterprises access to markets and knowledge, we open new pathways out of poverty for thousands of Lagosians. As MSMEs grow, they create jobs for our youth, women, artisans, and families, helping us build sustainable livelihoods and reduce unemployment. Supporting MSMEs also brings value-added growth and diversification, creating a more resilient and inclusive economy that does not depend on any single sector.”