From Fashion to Cuisine: Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair celebrates African innovation, entrepreneurship

…mulls global expansion

Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair, a trade fair initiative led by Nigerian entrepreneurs in Winnipeg, is gaining momentum as a platform for African entrepreneurs to showcase culture through commerce.

The second edition of the fair concluded with a strong attendance of over 2,000 visitors, featuring over 100 vendors spanning fashion, crafts, cuisine, wellness, and other creative sectors. The vibrant atmosphere celebrated African innovation and entrepreneurship, drawing a diverse crowd from across Manitoba.

The Fair attracted some dignitaries, including Minister Uzoma Asagwara, Deputy Premier of Manitoba, Nafia Naso, Senior Advisor, Community & Public Relations, City of Winnipeg; Janice Lukes, Acting Deputy Mayor of the City of Winnipeg, Maggie Yeboah, Executive Director of African Communities of Manitoba Incorporated (ACOMI), Vera Keyede, President, Nigerian Association of Manitoba Incorporated (NAMI).

Tolulope Adebayo, Founder, Canada-Naija Business Hub and BrandParlour Communications Inc, expressed pride in the fair’s rapid growth. She said ‘‘Seeing such a strong turnout was incredibly rewarding. It confirms there’s a real demand for platforms that celebrate African talent and enterprise.”

In the same vein, Olubunmi Agbaje, Founder, Nigerians in Winnipeg Inc., and Diva Dazzle Events said ‘‘This edition was a major milestone for us. The energy was electric. We’re now preparing to take this vision global, and we’re calling on sponsors and partners to help us scale’’.

Uzoma Asagwara, Deputy Premier of Manitoba and Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-term Care praised the initiative. Uzoma said, “This reminds me of the vibrant markets back home in Nigeria. It’s a slice of home here in Manitoba and a powerful way to uplift local businesses.”

One of the vendors at the event, a ceramic artist, Toluwalope Toludare, who saw the event as a turning point, described the fair as an amazing exposure connecting people with his work, helping to exceed sales expectations. He said ‘‘It’s empowering to be part of a community that truly values local artistry.”

Another Attendee, Imole expressed excitement, saying, “The fair was full of energy. I discovered so many beautiful items, it felt like a celebration of culture and creativity.”

Organising committee member Abiola Rasak emphasised the fair’s inclusive mission, “We’re building a space that welcomes everyone. Nigerians, other Black entrepreneurs, and people from all backgrounds. It’s about creating community through culture and business.”

The event was held in collaboration with Nigerians of Winnipeg, offering a bridge between African entrepreneurs and the broader Canadian community.

As momentum builds the trade fair is positioning itself as a hub for African-led entrepreneurship, with plans underway for international expansion. Organisers are inviting sponsors, investors, and cultural stakeholders to join in scaling the platform globally and showcasing African business excellence on the world stage.