NEPC Promotes Export Readiness for Economic Expansion

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has equipped entrepreneurs with vital export skills to drive sustainable economic growth at the maiden edition of the Lagos Mainland Trade Fair. Senior Trade Officers, Nancy Okpa and Olamide Olatunde, guided vendors through step-by-step export procedures, underscoring the importance of compliance with international standards as a pathway to long-term success in global markets.

Curator of the event and Chief Executive Officer of Mona Matthews, Monalisa Aze, described the training as timely and impactful. “With the right knowledge, vendors can expand responsibly, tap into international markets, and grow businesses that create lasting value at home and abroad,” she said.

Media personality and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, Janet Afolabi, who co-hosted the fair with Aze, highlighted the sustainability angle of export promotion. “Efforts like this not only boost foreign exchange earnings but also reduce Nigeria’s dependence on oil, paving the way for a more resilient and diversified economy,” she noted.

Officials of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) further sensitised participants on product registration, stressing that quality and compliance are central to sustainable market access. The fair drew a wide audience, including gospel singer Tope Alabi, who joined in supporting the celebration of enterprise and innovation.

Aze expressed joy at the event’s outcome, saying, “The fair showed that with determination and collaboration, we can create platforms that encourage sustainable business growth and economic expansion. The enthusiasm from vendors reflects the future potential of Nigeria’s non-oil sector.”

Echoing her remarks, Afolabi described the debut fair as a breakthrough: “It exceeded expectations. We saw entrepreneurs showcase creativity and resilience. This momentum can translate into long-term economic opportunities.”

One of the vendors, Enobong Ezekiel, Chief Executive Officer of Coreal8, noted the fair’s role in strengthening local businesses. “I connected with many customers and partners, and the experience reinforced the importance of building enterprises that are not only profitable but also sustainable,” he said.

By equipping entrepreneurs with the tools for global trade, NEPC’s intervention positions non-oil exports as a driver of sustainability, resilience, and inclusive economic growth in Nigeria.