…Hosts Landmark Trade Expo in Lagos
India has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic and bilateral relations with Nigeria, as it hosted the maiden edition of the India Trade Expo 2025 in Lagos.
Speaking during a panel session at the event, India’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Vartika Rawat, emphasized the vast potential for collaboration between both nations. She highlighted the need to explore new avenues in trade and economic partnerships, noting the significant presence of Indian-origin businesses in Nigeria as a promising sign.
“There are over 200 Indian-origin companies operating successfully in Nigeria — a testament to the immense opportunities both countries offer each other,” Rawat stated.
She expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s hospitality, especially towards the over 50,000 Indian expatriates who now call the country home.
“Indian entrepreneurs are not just growing their businesses here; they are contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s development. Together, these companies represent the second-largest employer base in the country, only behind the Federal Government,” she added.
Organized by the Indian High Commission in Abuja in partnership with the Indian Professionals Forum, the India Trade Expo 2025 brought together Indian-origin enterprises to engage directly with Nigerian government officials, business chambers, and private sector stakeholders. The goal: to foster mutual growth and prosperity.
“This expo not only celebrates the contributions of Indian businesses to the Nigerian economy, but also seeks to strengthen economic cooperation, especially in the wake of opportunities created by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA),” Rawat said confidently.
“It’s time Indian companies focus more on Africa — with Nigeria leading the charge.”
President of the Indian Professionals Forum, Pradeep Pahalwani, echoed her sentiments, describing the expo as a platform for mutual understanding and forward-looking trade relationships.
“It’s an opportunity for both governments to embrace the broader vision of what a solid bilateral partnership can achieve,” he said.
Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Olugbemiga Aina, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening ties with India. He urged Indian businesses to tap into the wide-ranging investment prospects Lagos has to offer.
Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir, also stressed the need to reinvigorate trade relations between the two nations. While acknowledging the strength of existing partnerships, he expressed concern over the decline in bilateral trade volume.
“The potential for collaboration is enormous. We can open new markets, create jobs, and accelerate economic development — but we must act swiftly. Our trade volume has dropped from $14.95 billion in 2022 to $7.89 billion in 2024, and that must change,” he concluded.
