The Lagos Tourism Fair 2025 aims for N5 billion in sales, supporting SMEs through trade, entertainment, and business growth initiatives

The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging entertainment as a driver of trade, with the 2025 Lagos Tourism Fair projected to generate N5 billion in sales.

Set to take place from **April 11 to 13** at **Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island**, the fair is being organised in collaboration with the **Naija Brand Chick (NBC) Trade Fair**, marking the second partnership between Lagos State and NBC.

Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, emphasised the government’s dedication to supporting **local businesses and entrepreneurs** through strategic initiatives like this fair.

“The essence of tourism lies in buying, selling, and landscape development while boosting the local economy and fostering cultural exchange,” Aregbe stated.

He noted that the Lagos State government prioritises **job creation, SME growth, poverty reduction, and bridging economic inequality**, making events like this a key part of their development strategy.

“This edition will be bigger and better, as we have worked tirelessly to refine the experience and maximise impact. Beyond the physical marketplace, we are introducing an **online deals spot** to enhance accessibility,” he added.

The trade fair will provide attendees with **cost-saving shopping opportunities**, discounted deals, and access to **high-quality products from over 220 vendors**.

NBC founder Nelly Agbogu highlighted Lagos as the ideal location for business expansion, crediting the state government’s support for small enterprises.

“Lagos provides the perfect landscape for business growth. This fair proves that with the right support, dreams can be actualised. We are thrilled to create another groundbreaking event that empowers SMEs and transforms lives,” Agbogu said.

Beyond business transactions, the **Lagos Tourism Fair 2025** will offer an engaging experience with:

✔ **Business masterclasses and workshops** for vendor education
✔ **Financial inclusion initiatives**, including grants and funding opportunities
✔ **Cultural performances, celebrity appearances, and dance showcases**
✔ **Raffle draws and giveaways** to boost sales and engagement

With an estimated **75,000 attendees over three days**, the fair aims to solidify its reputation as **one of Nigeria’s top business events**. By merging **trade, entertainment, and entrepreneurship**, Lagos State is reinforcing its position as a hub for economic growth and innovation.

 Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke will unveil the world’s largest art canvas in Abuja, marking a monumental achievement for the global art community

On Wednesday, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a renowned Nigerian artist and passionate advocate for autism awareness, is set to unveil the world’s largest art canvas at Eagle Square, Abuja.

Also read: Cross River State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Abubakar Robert Ewa, Passes Away

This groundbreaking event will be celebrated as a significant milestone in the global art community, as it marks the unveiling of a record-breaking achievement by an individual.

The Guinness World Records Certificate will be officially presented at the event, acknowledging Kanyeyachukwu’s extraordinary feat.

This recognition is a testament to his immense creativity, artistic prowess, and determination, solidifying his place in history as a trailblazer in the world of art.

For Kanyeyachukwu, this accomplishment is not only a personal triumph but also an embodiment of his commitment to inclusion and advocacy.

As an artist on the autism spectrum, he has become a powerful voice for those living with autism, with his work serving as a source of empowerment and inspiration to millions worldwide.

His philosophy, “Impossibility is a Myth,” resonates deeply through his journey and accomplishments.

The unveiling of this record-breaking canvas is made possible thanks to the support of key organisations and partners.

Esteemed institutions, such as the Society of Nigerian Artists, The Zeebah Foundation, the Federal Ministries of Education and Health, and corporate giants like MTN and GTCO, have all played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life.

The event will be graced by high-profile dignitaries, including Nyesome Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, who will serve as the Chief Host.

Mariya Mahmoud, the Minister of State at FCT, will co-host the event, while Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, will attend as the Special Guest of Honour.

Kanyeyachukwu’s journey into the world of art began at the tender age of two. His early fascination with art manifested through scribbles and abstract forms on walls and paper within his family home in Abuja.

His talent and unique perspective on life have since flourished, gaining him international recognition.

In 2021, Kanyeyachukwu held a solo exhibition in Dubai titled “FAT” (Fabulous, Autistic, and Talented), where he boldly showcased his artistic expression and highlighted the importance of autism awareness.

His father, who has been a steadfast supporter, explained that the exhibition aimed to promote understanding and inclusion for children with autism, as well as to spread Kanyeyachukwu’s artistic vision across the globe.

As a young artist, Kanyeyachukwu’s vibrant and expressive works provide a window into his unique worldview, offering viewers a glimpse into his rich imagination.

His ability to convey such deep emotions and perspectives through his art continues to inspire and uplift others, particularly those advocating for inclusion and acceptance in society.

The unveiling of the world’s largest art canvas is just the latest achievement in Kanyeyachukwu’s remarkable career.

His relentless pursuit of artistic excellence and his advocacy for autism inclusion have made him a beacon of hope and inspiration for individuals across the world.

Nigeria’s government announces plans to establish “Renewed Hope Cultural Villages” across 36 states, promoting heritage, tourism, and economic growth

In an ambitious move to preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, the Federal Government has unveiled plans to establish “Renewed Hope Cultural Villages” across all 36 states.

Also read: Nigeria’s national policy on culture nears final review after 37 years

This initiative, part of the broader “Renewed Hope Cultural Project,” aims to foster national unity, promote tourism, and spur economic growth through the arts and creative industries.

The announcement was made by Mr. Abiola Jagunlabi, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, during an interview in Ilorin.

Jagunlabi emphasized that the cultural villages would be developed in close collaboration with state governments to ensure the success of the project.

“The Renewed Hope Cultural Villages will transform historic sites into vibrant creative hubs, breathing new life into local economies and creating employment opportunities within the arts, entertainment, and tourism sectors,” Jagunlabi said.

“This project will also focus on the restoration and conservation of historic landmarks, monuments, and palaces, ensuring Nigeria’s cultural heritage remains intact for future generations.”

The cultural villages are expected to feature a variety of initiatives, from preserving ancient artifacts and enhancing cultural education to promoting local crafts and creative industries.

This collaborative effort with state governments and local communities is aimed at boosting Nigeria’s economic diversification while strengthening social cohesion.

Jagunlabi noted that the success of the project will hinge on the active participation of local stakeholders, including state governments, community leaders, and cultural organisations. By working together, the initiative hopes to unlock the transformative potential of Nigeria’s arts, culture, and tourism sectors.

The government believes that the Renewed Hope Cultural Villages will create thousands of jobs, generating significant revenue through increased tourism and creative enterprises.

This move aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on stimulating economic growth and national development.

Furthermore, Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, has committed to advancing Nigeria’s economy through innovative policies and partnerships.

Musawa is particularly focused on developing the creative industry, which she believes holds immense potential for empowering the nation’s youth and contributing to long-term economic stability.

Jagunlabi concluded by revealing that the National Economic Council (NEC) has already approved the project, laying the groundwork for Nigeria’s creative industry transformation.

The “Renewed Hope Cultural Villages” initiative promises to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural revitalisation and economic growth, with the potential to enhance the country’s global image as a hub for tourism and creative industries.