Nigerian-owned businesses in Canada have showcased their products and services at the maiden edition of the Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair, a celebration of Nigerian culture, food, music, fashion, art and entrepreneurial spirit.
Organised by Canada Naija-Business Hub, Nigerians in Winnipeg used the opportunity to celebrate Nigerian culture in the diaspora.
The trade fair provided an exciting opportunity to empower SMEs and for people to experience the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and Africa in Canada.
The one-day event featured diverse vendors showcasing various products and services. The products cut across fashion, houses, the latest African styles and food vendors offering authentic Nigerian cuisine, music and art.
Uzoma Asagwara, deputy premier and minister of Health, seniors and long-term care of Manitoba, encouraged the entrepreneurs to continue the good work.
“Nigerian culture is beautiful and diverse. I look forward to having more of this gathering in Winnipeg,” Uzoma said.
Tolulope Adebayo, founder of Canada Naija-Business Hub and BrandParlour Communications Inc. said the Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair is an opportunity to connect with the rich heritage of Nigeria beyond marketplace.
“It would help participants to discover talented local businesses in Canada and bring over 100 businesses from Nigeria and African communities together to showcase their products and services.
“The success of the trade fair is a testament to the collaboration between the Nigerian community and local businesses. We are incredibly grateful for the support received from established brands in Winnipeg. Their participation has fostered important connections between the Nigerian community and the broader Winnipeg business landscape.
Olubunmi Agbaje, founder of Nigerians in Winnipeg, expressed gratitude to all participants including consumers, the planning committee, government representatives, community leaders, vendors, partners, and volunteers.
She also said that the trade fair will become an annual event.
Aside from promoting Nigerian cultural heritage and networking opportunities for small business owners, the Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair attendees also enjoyed massive discounts, raffle draws, free meal tickets and games.
Markus Chambers, acting deputy Mayor and city councillor for St. Norbert-Seine River, also congratulated the Nigerians in Winnipeg and encouraged them to keep pulling up more networking events.
The Trade fair enjoyed the presence of many dignitaries such as Uzoma Asagwara, deputy premier and minister of Health, seniors and long-term care of Manitoba; Markus Chambers, acting deputy Mayor and City Councilor for St. Norbert-Seine River, Winnipeg; and Janice Lukes, deputy Mayor and city councillor for Waverley West, Winnipeg.
