FAB West Africa - Exhibition Manager Statement - February 2025

We’ve just got back from our visits to the various food and drink expos – Gulfood, and before that ISM Cologne and Wine Paris – and it was great to meet up with so many of you on the way. We were delighted to hear your enthusiasm for Food & Beverage West Africa and to be able to discuss the event with you. 

Another opportunity to meet us and our newest member of the sales team, Calum Turley, will be the IFE in London (March 17-19). I’m very pleased to bring Calum on board as Senior Sales Executive and he will be assisting and contributing towards exhibitor sales. He can be contacted via email at callum.turley@btob-events.com or phone +44 2475 460140. 

Nigeria developments

Since I last wrote to you, there has been a move to boost Nigeria’s fisheries and aquaculture. The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy have pledged to synergise their efforts to enhance food production in Nigeria.

Discussions in February have included commitments promoting the sustainable use of Nigeria’s water bodies, both marine and inland, for a range of purposes but including enhancing fisheries and irrigation to support better food security.

It is envisaged, in particular, that fish production in Nigeria will be enhanced by stronger collaboration between both Ministries.

Elsewhere, the ups and downs of food import expenditure has been highlighted by the Central Bank of Nigeria. The country allocated $1.87 billion for food imports in the first nine months of 2024, marking a $235 million increase compared to the $1.64 billion spent during the same period in 2023. This highlights a 14.4% increase in foreign exchange for food imports to meet demand.

However, there have been significant monthly variations in foreign exchange allocations for food imports throughout 2024. In January, usage dropped by 33%, falling from $245.7 million in 2023 to $164.4 million in 2024. That contrasts with February nearly doubling to $303.9 million from $163.6 million the previous year.

Food and Beverage West Africa

The countdown continues to Food & Beverage West Africa which opens on June 10th at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.Among the new exhibitors to sign up are: 

• Brave New Spirits Ltd (Scotland)
• Crafers (Uzbekistan)
• Mei Industrial Corporation (India)
• Chhajed Foods Pvt Ltd (India)

Remember, if you are thinking about taking part, but this will be your first time exhibiting in Nigeria, we can support you every step of the way. Our experienced operations team can help new and established exhibitors at Food& Beverage West Africa with advice and assistance on aspects such as:
• Visas
• Logistics
• Accommodation
• Local transportation
• Telecoms 
• Stand design and build
• Marketing and sponsorship.

If you are interested in showcasing your products at West Africa's largest F&B trade exhibition, Click Here to speak to a member of the team. 

Brad Smith
Exhibition Manager 
Food and Beverage West Africa