By Kayode Olopade
The Lagos State Government has announced the maiden edition of the Lagos Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Exclusive and Eko Round City Trade Fair, a new initiative aimed at strengthening grassroots enterprise and driving inclusive economic growth across the state.
The week-long fair will hold from December 8 to 14, 2025, at the National Stadium, Surulere.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada Ambrose, said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to supporting small businesses and giving visibility to entrepreneurs often overlooked in mainstream markets.
She explained that the fair is designed to promote an inclusive marketplace that enhances capacity building, business expansion and collaboration among entrepreneurs across local government areas.
Five key LGAs—Surulere, Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Eti-Osa and Apapa—along with their respective LCDAs, will participate in the event. Thousands of MSMEs, including artisans, informal sector operators and emerging entrepreneurs, are expected to showcase products and services.
According to Bada Ambrose, the “Round City” model connects the unique commercial strengths of different parts of Lagos, from the industrial hub of Apapa to the vibrant business districts of Eti-Osa, Mainland and Surulere.
Highlighting the role of MSMEs in the state’s economy, she noted that Lagos contributes over 30 per cent to Nigeria’s GDP, and that in 2024, the service sector—driven largely by trade—accounted for more than 90 per cent of the state’s real GDP.
“These facts speak clearly: when MSMEs thrive, Lagos thrives. And when Lagos thrives, Nigeria advances,” she said.
She described the forthcoming fair as a celebration of enterprise, innovation and community, noting that it will offer market access, business knowledge and partnership opportunities capable of lifting thousands out of poverty.
“We have created strong pathways between MSMEs and support agencies, potential investors and public-private partners. For artisans and informal sector operators—from roadside vendors to market traders—we have ensured full inclusion,” she added.
The Commissioner also disclosed plans to develop a comprehensive database of MSMEs and informal-sector actors across participating LGAs to enable targeted government support.
Fair Coordinator, Mr. Fuad Oki, commended the Ministry for championing the initiative, saying the fair will attract artisans, food vendors, fashion designers, home décor producers, technology service providers and other informal sector players.
Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Mr. Yusuf Suleiman, speaking on behalf of participating LGAs and LCDAs, expressed appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his support. He said the fair will open significant economic opportunities for MSMEs and enhance grassroots development across the state.
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