Industry Minister Oduwole unveils digital trade vision at Nigeria’s 2025 Trade Fair

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, on Friday declared the 2025 Nigeria International Trade Fair open with a strong call for deeper collaboration, digital competitiveness and sustained support for the Federal Government’s economic reforms.

Speaking at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, she said the fair, themed “Trade, Technology and Transformation: Digital Trade for Economic and Industrial Growth,” comes at a defining moment as Nigeria pushes to stabilise its economy and expand its regional influence.

Oduwole described the fair as more than an annual exhibition, calling it “a testament to the resilience of our economy,” especially as businesses navigate global uncertainty and adapt to technology-driven trade systems.

She noted that the physical trade fair space continues to shape Nigeria’s commercial evolution, even as the world shifts toward digital platforms.

The Minister highlighted the progress recorded under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying Nigeria has “captured global attention and renewed investor confidence” through major reforms implemented over the past two years.

Oduwole listed the unification of exchange rates, fuel subsidy removal, modernised tax and customs processes and improved fiscal discipline among the key reforms strengthening Nigeria’s economic outlook.

According to her, these decisions are already yielding early signs of stability, including a steadier foreign exchange market and renewed growth prospects.

“These reforms are the building blocks of a Nigeria that is more productive, more competitive and more confident on the global stage,” she said.

A significant part of her address focused on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which she described as the backbone of the economy and the central focus of the fair.

She announced that intra-African trade involving Nigeria had grown by 14% in the first half of the year, an indicator of Africa’s expanding commercial potential.

Oduwole urged African exhibitors and partners to take advantage of the innovations and products on display, stressing that Nigeria is increasingly positioning itself as a regional marketplace and gateway to West Africa.

“Nigeria stands ready to serve as an accessible gateway to West Africa and the African continent,” she said.

She called for collective action to build a future where digital trade, technology-driven enterprises and regional markets drive sustainable growth.

“Let us seize this moment to collaborate, strengthen our economies and expand our markets,” she added.

In her remarks, the Executive Director and CEO of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, Vera Safiya Ndanusa, said the fair symbolises Nigeria’s readiness to lead Africa’s evolving trade landscape.

She noted that although the complex had experienced years of structural and administrative decline, the current administration has begun a determined revival.

Ndanusa said the Management Board is legally mandated to manage and develop the complex as a national economic asset and intends to restore Nigeria’s statutory authority over trade fair organisation nationwide.

She also announced plans for a modern regulatory framework, deeper collaboration with NACCIMA, ECOWAS and global partners, and a stronger push for non-oil exports and SME development.

Ndanusa emphasised that the fairground will play a crucial role in Nigeria’s implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that empowering SMEs, women-led businesses and young entrepreneurs remains central to the Board’s strategy.

Also speaking, the Etsu Nupe of Nupe Kingdom, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, praised the fair as a milestone in Nigeria’s transition from traditional commerce to modern digital trade systems.

He commended the focus on digital innovation and offered prayers for national progress and for President Tinubu’s leadership.

The Minister of State for Industry, John Owan Enoh, said the 2025 edition of the fair is taking place during a period of major global economic shifts and domestic security concerns.

He said the presence of innovators and business leaders reflects the resilience and determination of Nigerians despite challenges.

Former Niger State Governor, Muazu Babangida Aliyu, applauded the organisers and called for stronger commitment to national economic transformation.

He stressed the need for greater funding for the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, saying investment must support both small and large businesses.

“This ministry is about creating wealth, and that is what we need in this country,” he said.

The fair brings together exhibitors, investors, SMEs and trade missions from across Africa and beyond and will feature innovations, export showcases, business forums and discussions aligned with Nigeria’s diversification agenda.