The Kwara Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KWACCIMA), in collaboration with the Kwara State Government through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology, will commence its 2025 Annual Trade Fair on December 5 in Ilorin.
The event marks the opening of one of the largest commercial gatherings in the North Central region.
Scheduled to hold at the George Innih Stadium Complex, the fair is expected to attract a broad range of participants, including local manufacturers, foreign exhibitors, SMEs, artisans, startups, financial institutions, and government agencies.
KWACCIMA President, Abu Salami announced during a press conference at the chamber’s secretariat in Ganmo that the 12th edition of the fair will run from December 5 to 15, 2025, at the Kwara Stadium Complex.
He described this year’s edition as ”a significant step in strengthening the state’s economic base.”
According to him, “the fair will serve as a platform for showcasing innovations, expanding market access, and attracting both local and international investors.”
Salami emphasised that the trade fair aligns with KWACCIMA’s commitment to driving sustainable economic development, enhancing intra- and inter-state trade, and promoting locally made products in support of Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
He reiterated the Kwara State Government’s readiness to support initiatives that stimulate investment, job creation, and economic growth.
In his keynote address, the 1st Deputy President of KWACCIMA and Chairman of the 12th Kwara Trade Fair, Dr. Ibrahim Sani, underscored the relevance of this year’s theme: “Empowering Local Entrepreneurs for Global Competitiveness.”
Sani noted that “Nigerian entrepreneurs continue to face challenges such as limited access to financing, inadequate skills, and restricted market reach.”
He explained that providing targeted support financing, entrepreneurship training, market linkages, technology, innovation, branding, and packaging would position local businesses to compete globally.
Sani said “the strategic goal of the fair is to enable enterprises to make meaningful contributions to job creation, poverty reduction, economic growth, and national diversification away from oil.”
Sani also revealed plans to elevate the trade fair to international status.
KWACCIMA has secured the engagement of the D-8 Business and Economic Group in Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, Turkey, and Nigeria with several member countries confirming participation.
He added that the fair aims to showcase Kwara State’s rich natural, mineral, agricultural, cultural, and human resources.
Expected exhibitors include; Micro, small, medium, and large-scale industries; artisans and nano-businesses; financial institutions; government MDAs; and research and educational institutions.
Exhibitions will span multiple sectors: agriculture, mining, culture, construction equipment, oil and gas, renewable energy, telecommunications and ICT, electronics, textiles, fashion, cosmetics, and consultancy services.
KWACCIMA has introduced incentives and attractions such as subsidized fees for exhibitors, free entry for all visitors, proposed business grants, seminars, talent hunts, musical concerts, and a children’s funfair arena.
The 11-day fair will run daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This year’s edition will also feature exhibitions in agro-processing, technology and ICT, fashion and leatherwork, automobiles and spare parts, financial services, household items, food and beverages, and creative and cultural products.
Both leaders of the chamber expressed appreciation to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his “unmatched support” and commitment to the fair’s success.
Representing the Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Abosede Buraimoh, the Director of the Ministry, Mr. Kunle Adimula, assured KWACCIMA of the Ministry’s full participation, describing it as a “worthy partner.”
Participants expressed optimism that the fair will create new business partnerships and boost patronage for local enterprises.
Many exhibitors also noted that the event provides an opportunity to introduce new products and connect directly with consumers.
Residents of Ilorin and neighbouring states are encouraged to visit the fairground to explore innovative products, enjoy discounts, learn emerging business trends, and support indigenous businesses.
The 2025 KWACCIMA Trade Fair promises 11 days of exhibitions, business seminars, product launches, networking sessions, and entertainment.