Segun Atanda/
The Business Club Ikeja (BCI) has launched its first-ever three-day Trade Expo, bringing together businesses, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to showcase innovation, foster collaboration, and address business challenges in Ikeja and beyond.
Ending today at the BCI Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, the event featured 60 businesses from various sectors, highlighting the region’s entrepreneurial potential.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Adetola Okanlawon, Revenue Chairman of Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), emphasized the critical role of businesses in economic development.
“Businesses—whether small, medium, or large—are the backbone of any thriving economy,” Okanlawon said. He outlined ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Government and Onigbongbo LCDA to create a more business-friendly environment, including improving revenue systems, streamlining processes, and ensuring policies foster growth rather than hinder it.
Encouraging exhibitors to embrace collaboration, he told the gathering, “This Expo is not just about selling products. It’s about finding synergies, sharing insights, and leveraging innovation. Those who embrace change and take calculated risks will not only survive but thrive.”
He further called on investors and policymakers to support startups, SMEs, and large corporations in building a strong, sustainable economy.
Dr. Adesola Falaiye, President of BCI, highlighted the expo’s theme, “Buy, Sell, Connect,” explaining that beyond showcasing businesses, the event aimed to create opportunities for meaningful interactions and partnerships.
“We invited Onigbongbo LCDA and the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce and Industry as partners so they can better understand the challenges businesses face and contribute to their growth,” she said. “The government benefits as well by drawing revenue from a thriving business ecosystem.”
She also presented her books that serve as fitness manuals for working women, offering them at a discounted rate to attendees.
Prof. Anthony Kila, Chairman of the BCI Business Expo Organising Committee, announced that the exhibition would become an annual event, aligning with the association’s annual general meeting.
“Our goal is to unite entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry experts to explore new opportunities for partnerships, business expansion, and innovation,” Kila said.
The expo showcased a wide range of businesses, spanning industries such as hospitality, fashion, education, publishing, and aviation. Participants included:
- Chadoth Empire Ltd – showcasing packaged crunchy snacks, beancake, Zobo tea bags, and fashion accessories.
- InterGuide Academy and InterGuide Air Services – highlighting services in education and aviation.
- Ibeez Gems – specialising in customised furniture, refurbishing old furniture, and selling home decor accessories.
- GolfView Suites & Conference Centre – promoting its 700-seat conference hall and event facilities, strategically located near the airport.
- Afkar Printing and Publishing Company Ltd – showcasing its expertise in quality printing and publishing services.
- Vono Furniture Products Limited – displaying premium furniture solutions.
- PKF Nigeria – a professional services firm offering audit, tax, and advisory solutions.
- CIAPS (Centre for International Advanced and Professional Studies) – led by Prof. Anthony Kila, focusing on professional education and development.
An official from GolfView Suites emphasized their strategic location, just 10 minutes from the international airport and 15 minutes from the local airport, making them an ideal venue for corporate events.
As the BCI Trade Expo continues, business owners and policymakers alike are optimistic that the event will serve as a launchpad for long-term growth, innovation, and investment.
With a strong commitment from both the government and the private sector, the expo is set to become a major annual business event in Lagos, propelling enterprises in Ikeja and beyond to greater heights.
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