Foreign companies from across West Africa are showing keen interest in participating in this year’s Gateway International Trade Fair, slated to run from April 19 to April 29.

Alongside them, stakeholders from various sectors, including food, beverages, health, agriculture, manufacturing, banking, and small and medium-scale enterprises, are also eager to secure pavilions and spaces at the Trade Fair Complex.

Among the notable companies expected to participate are Leadway Assurance, Lafarge, International Breweries, Apples and Pears, Rite Foods, Industrial Platform, Remo (Arise), GB Foods, Bank of Industry (BOI), Gateway Mortgage Bank, Providus Bank, First Bank, Sterling Bank, Lotus Bank, and regulatory agencies like NAFDAC.

The theme for this year’s event is “Achieving Economic Prosperity Through Business Connection, Trade, and Investment.” Organizers have assured participants of adequate security and logistics to ensure a world-class event.

Engr. Mike Akingbade, President of the Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA), highlighted the collaborative efforts between his organization and the state government to ensure a seamless exercise. He also mentioned that new innovations are being introduced to attract more participants to the event.

Adding to the excitement, Oluyemisi Somorin-Dawodu, Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Industry, revealed plans for additional attractions such as a raffle draw offering a grand prize of a two-bedroom bungalow and the establishment of an entertainment village, aiming to enhance the overall experience for attendees.