Stakeholders, Residents Laud Bada Trade Fair

Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada, the Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, launched the 2024 Trade Fair and Exhibition, themed “Building Prosperity Through Trade, Innovation, and Partnership.” The trade fair, which kicked off yesterday, December 2nd, 2024 at the Babajide Sanwo-Olu international Market, Ikosi is a five-day platform for growth, opportunity, and innovation, bringing together businesses, entrepreneurs, and customers from across the community.

Mr. Femi Saheed, Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Kosofe Constituency II, has commended the Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA for organizing a trade fair that brings together entrepreneurs, small-scale businesses, and big businesses.

In his speech, Mr. Saheed expressed his amazement at the array of goods on display, including clothing materials, cosmetics, food items, drinks, shoes, and communication gadgets. He praised the Chairman for leveraging the community’s comparative advantage, citing the presence of two of Africa’s largest markets, Mile 12 International Market and Isheri Fruit Market.

Mr. Saheed also commended the Council Boss for empowering women and traders, and for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. He encouraged the exhibitors to take advantage of the opportunity to showcase their products and services, and praised the Chairman for bringing development and civilization to the community.

Specifically, Mr. Saheed praised the Chairman for bringing the trade fair to the people, saying “You are bringing Government to the people, Princess Bada is bringing development, she’s bringing something that you are supposed to use your money to go to Tafawa Balewa square or international trade fair to book a stand, but you are getting it for free in Ikosi-Isheri LCDA.” He noted that this initiative will not only benefit the community but also showcase the entrepreneurial skills of its people.

The trade fair, which is expected to last for five days, is seen as a welcome development by Hon. Saheed, who promised to support the initiative and ensure its success.

The Oba of Shangisha, Oba Jamiu Lawal Aileru, commended the Princess Bada for organizing a free trade fair that provides business owners with the opportunity to thrive.

Oba Aileru expressed his excitement at the initiative, stating that he has never seen a free trade fair of this magnitude before being organised by a council Chairman. He praised the Chairman for providing a platform for business owners to showcase their products and services without any financial burden.

According to Former Ikosi-Isheri LCDA Executive Secretary, Hon. Afolabi Kazeem ABK, the timing of the trade fair, which coincides with the Christmas season, is strategic, as people need various goods and services during this period. He noted that the Chairman decision to provide free space for participants is a laudable initiative that will make goods more affordable for consumers.

ABK expressed optimism that the trade fair will attract a large number of visitors, given the conducive environment and the absence of costs for participants. He praised the Council Boss for her efforts in promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth in the community.

According to Mrs. Shakira Fasasi her stand offers a variety of fabrics, including lacy, square, damask, senator materials, plain linen, and more, all at discounted prices. She stated that prices start as low as N2,000 per yard, with a 12% discount available.

Mrs. Fasasi expressed her appreciation to the Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA for organizing the trade fair, which she described as a “very great opportunity.” She noted that the application process for the trade fair was transparent and accessible, with all participants applying online without needing any special connections.

A group of Igbo traders expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the Council Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA for providing them with a unique opportunity to showcase their goods and services at the ongoing trade fair.

According to the traders, what struck them most was the Chairman decision not to collect any fees from them for participating in the trade fair. This gesture, they said, has greatly helped to reduce their financial burden and enabled them to focus on selling their products.

The traders also commended the Mayoress for not being tribalistic in allocating stands at the trade fair. They noted that the opportunity was open to all, regardless of their ethnic background or affiliation.

According to Rashidat Ogunbadejo, a vendor who sells snacks and Zobo drinks, the opportunity to participate in the trade fair has been a blessing, as she has been able to make significant sales. “We thank God for sales,” she said.

Rashidat particularly commended the Mayoress for giving her and other vendors the opportunity to display their products, describing it as a “very rare opportunity.” She expressed her gratitude for the Chairman support and encouragement, which has helped to boost her business.