NEPC Empowers Entrepreneurs with Export Skills at Lagos Mainland Trade Fair
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has taken a bold step to empower Nigerian entrepreneurs with export knowledge at the maiden edition of the Lagos Mainland Trade Fair. Senior Trade Officers, Nancy Okpa and Olamide Olatunde, trained vendors on step-by-step export procedures and highlighted the importance of meeting international standards.
Exportation is a crucial pathway for businesses seeking growth beyond local markets. By equipping entrepreneurs with these skills, NEPC is helping small businesses expand into global markets, earn more revenue, and contribute to Nigeria’s economy.
Why This Training Matters
The Curator of the fair and CEO of Mona Matthews, Monalisa Aze, emphasized the timeliness of the program, saying:
“Vendors will be more confident and equipped to navigate the exportation process. Through exportation, entrepreneurs can expand their businesses and access global markets.”
Her statement shows that understanding export readiness is not just for big businesses—small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can also benefit if they are properly guided.
Beyond Oil: Diversifying Nigeria’s Economy
Media personality and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, Janet Afolabi, applauded NEPC’s role, stressing that non-oil exports could reduce Nigeria’s dependence on oil and increase foreign exchange earnings. This aligns with Nigeria’s economic diversification drive, opening opportunities for entrepreneurs in food, fashion, crafts, and other industries.
Officials from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) also sensitised vendors on product registration, ensuring that their goods can meet both local and international compliance requirements.
“Export readiness is not just about products—it’s about positioning Nigerian entrepreneurs to compete globally, earn foreign exchange, and build sustainable businesses.”
How Entrepreneurs Can Benefit
Learn Export Standards – Entrepreneurs should take advantage of NEPC’s training and resources to ensure their products meet international requirements.
Register Products – Working with NAFDAC helps businesses gain credibility and access new markets.
Build Networks – Trade fairs create opportunities for connections with customers, partners, and investors.
Leverage Global Opportunities – Exportation allows SMEs to earn foreign income, expand visibility, and grow faster.
A Successful Beginning
The fair, attended by vendors and guests including gospel singer Tope Alabi, was described as a breakthrough event. Aze expressed delight at its success, while Afolabi called it “incredible,” noting the energy and innovation on display. Vendors like Enobong Ezekiel of Coreal8 praised the exposure and connections made during the fair.
The Lagos Mainland Trade Fair shows that with the right support; Nigerian entrepreneurs can go global. NEPC’s training is not just about exports—it is about creating opportunities for sustainable growth, international recognition, and economic stability.
