President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially launched the 2025 edition of the Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) in Lagos, describing the event as more than a mere exhibition but rather a platform where brands and businesses converge to forge deals and discover new markets. The president, who represented the event through Honourable Minister of State for Industry Senator John Owan Enoh, commended the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) for selecting the theme 'Trade, Growth and Global Connection,' which he said captures exactly what the nation needs at this point in time.
On the subject of trade, President Tinubu noted that a country that refuses to sell to the world will always remain at its mercy. He observed that Nigeria has, for too long, relied on a single commodity to earn its foreign exchange, and that his administration's reforms have begun to bear fruit. Specifically, he said the country's non-oil exports now exceed $6.1 billion in 2025.
He also highlighted the potential offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area, which gives Nigeria access to a market of 1.4 billion people. President Tinubu stressed that Nigerian goods must take their rightful place in that market, not just Nigerian consumers.
The president further charged exhibitors to take full advantage of the dedicated business-to-business and business-to-government rooms to sign deals that would enhance their commercial fortunes.
In his welcome address, the LCCI President, Engineer Leye Kupoluyi, described this year's edition as a milestone, marking four decades of connecting businesses, opening markets, and creating opportunities. He said the fair reflects the enduring enterprise of the people and the confidence of the many organisations and countries that have participated over the years.
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