Trade fair to showcase youth, women-owned businesses

Rest Logic Nigeria, in partnership with the Office of the Vice President through the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion (PreCEFI) and the Inspiring Youths Africa Initiative & Magazine, has announced the maiden edition of the National Free Trade Fair. The three-day event, scheduled for October 14–16, 2025, will take place at the Exhibition […]

Trade fair to showcase youth, women-owned businesses

Rest Logic Nigeria, in partnership with the Office of the Vice President through the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion (PreCEFI) and the Inspiring Youths Africa Initiative & Magazine, has announced the maiden edition of the National Free Trade Fair.

The three-day event, scheduled for October 14–16, 2025, will take place at the Exhibition Pavilion beside the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre (ICC), Central Business District, Abuja.

Organizers said the fair, themed “Empowering Women and Youths for Inclusive Economic Growth,” will provide visibility for 1,000 nano and small-scale businesses owned by women and young entrepreneurs across Nigeria. Over 20,000 participants are expected, with projected deals estimated at more than ₦20 billion.

The initiative aims to address barriers facing young and women entrepreneurs, including limited access to markets, finance, and sustainable partnerships. Exhibitors will be offered free exhibition booths, mentorship, and training sessions, while also connecting with local and international investors.

Organizers said the businesses to be showcased will cut across sectors such as agriculture, fashion, technology, beauty, handicrafts, and the creative economy. Masterclasses will cover agribusiness, business development, digital skills, creative industries, and real estate.

The fair will also feature an investment roundtable, pitch sessions for start-ups, partnership pavilions for NGOs and development agencies, as well as entertainment and cultural showcases.

Key stakeholders expected to participate include the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment; Bank of Industry (BOI); SMEDAN; Federal Ministry of Youth Development; Federal Ministry of Women Affairs; Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology; AfCFTA Secretariat; NEXIM Bank; and several development partners.

According to RestLogic Nigeria’s Executive Director, Amb. Jeremiah Agala, the event is not only a trade exhibition but also a national empowerment drive.

“This maiden edition offers a unique opportunity to catalyze inclusive economic growth by empowering the two most dynamic segments of Nigeria’s population, the youths and women,” he said.

The organizers also disclosed that the fair is backed by a budget of over ₦100 million, with sponsorship packages available in categories such as Title, Platinum, Gold, and Start-Up, offering branding visibility and networking opportunities.