By Lukman Olabiyi
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has emphasised that the upcoming Lagos Shopping Festival, set to take place from December 23 to 25 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Lagos Island, will create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the state.
During the unveiling of the festival’s symbol at the Lagos House in Ikeja, Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the inaugural event would promote commerce by supporting local businesses, attracting international brands, and generating direct and indirect jobs through vendor participation, logistics, and event management.
He noted that the festival, organised by the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts in collaboration with Tolaram Africa Group, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, and Chain Reactions Africa, will attract both local and international visitors to Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the city’s potential, comparing it to global destinations such as Dubai and Istanbul, which host major shopping festivals.
He recalled that Lagos had already tested the concept with a successful trade fair in April, which generated over N5 billion in sales from just 245 vendors within three days.
This success, he said, demonstrates the potential for the event to grow even bigger in the future.
“We are a city of big dreams and ambitions, and this December, Lagos will join the ranks of global cities with dedicated shopping festivals,” Sanwo-Olu declared.
“This is not just a festival; it’s an economic tool that will drive commerce, support local businesses, and create employment opportunities.”
The governor also assured that the festival would attract the Diaspora community and international tourists, emphasizing that Lagos is a safe and vibrant city. He thanked the festival’s sponsors, including Tolaram Africa Group, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, and Chain Reactions Africa, for their support.
Festival Director of Organisation and Logistics, Ms. Damilola Pedro, referred to Governor Sanwo-Olu as the “Lead Strategist and Biggest Salesperson” for Lagos, explaining that the festival would promote trade and commerce over the three-day event. She reflected on the journey of the festival’s concept, which began four years ago with the idea of a week-long event but was initially scaled down to three days based on the Governor’s advice.
“The Lagos Shopping Festival is more than just an event; it’s a legacy we’re creating for Lagos,” she said. “Through this festival, we’re placing Lagos alongside global shopping festivals in cities like Dubai and Singapore, showcasing our thriving economy and business potential.”