Dr. Chinyere Almona’s Post

12 November 2023 ... It's a WRAP!!! Farewell to global and local business connections as we wind down at the 37th Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF). As we draw the curtains on the 2023 LITF, it marks the end of a dynamic global and domestic showcase of trade, investment, innovation, collaboration, and cross-cultural exchanges. As I ruminate on the essence of the conclusion of this ten-day Fair, here are the highlights of my reflections. 1. CELEBRATION OF LITF ACHIEVEMENTS: Today's closing ceremony celebrates business deals, trading exchanges, investment opportunities, diverse innovations, and successful commercial collaborations forged during the 2023 LITF, showcasing a network of interconnected economies. 2. NETWORKING AND RELATIONSHIP BUILDING @ LITF: The LITF is a perfect platform for business and personal networking. As I went around the fairgrounds during these ten days, pausing to engage with exhibitors and visitors, I was convinced that this is a veritable platform. Exhibitors and visitors reflect on the connections made and partnerships formed, emphasizing the importance of cross-cultural interactions in fostering understanding and collaboration. 3. KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE AND INSIGHTS @ LITF: The ten days featured several “special days” where states, companies, and government agencies presented their products and services to customers/clients/consumers and prospects. Therefore, these closing moments prompt participants to reflect on the knowledge gained, industry trends identified, and the practical application of new ideas in their respective fields. 4. FAREWELL TO A VIBRANT LITF MARKETPLACE: It was ten days of hustle and bustle as sellers and buyers negotiated appropriate bargains. A local logistics framework emerged to convey goods from the Fairgrounds. As exhibitors bid farewell, today’s closing signifies the end of a vibrant marketplace where products and services were showcased, with a reflection on the economic impact generated. 5. LOOKING FORWARD: We encourage participants to continue the engagement beyond the Fairgrounds. Today’s closing serves as a transition to future possibilities, with participants anticipating ongoing collaborations and opportunities arising from the connections made during this year’s trade fair. WE WILL DO THIS AGAIN NEXT YEAR, 1ST TO 10TH NOVEMBER 2024 - 38TH LITF. In bidding farewell to the 2023 LITF, participants carry forward the essence of global collaboration, trade, innovation, and economic growth, shaping the future landscape of international business and cooperation. On a personal level, I made several new connections, learned several new things, and engaged productively. I AM SUPER PROUD OF MY STAFF. They worked really hard to ensure that we pulled this off. There were a myriad of challenges along the way, but see where we are today…AT THE END! Indeed, it is a wrap, and I GIVE GOD ALL THE GLORY!!!!! Everyone is invited to the closing ceremony. 😊 #tradefair #litf