LAGOS, November 2025 - The Nigeria International Home & Gift Exhibition (Home Show Nigeria) successfully challenged outdated perceptions about African markets when it opened in Lagos, Nigeria's economic hub, from November 11-13. The three-day event at TBS Center Hall 1 attracted buyers from across West Africa and international suppliers, primarily from China, demonstrating the region's untapped potential.
Opening Day: Strong Attendance Signals Market Interest
The exhibition's first day saw remarkable attendance, with queues forming before the 9 AM opening. Returning buyers noted significant improvements in scale and product diversity compared to previous editions. The opening ceremony featured high-profile attendees including China's Consul General in Lagos Yan Yuqing, CCPIT Chief Representative Lu Ming, and representatives from Lagos and Osun state governments.
Localization Meets Global Manufacturing
This year's exhibition strategically combined local design expertise with global manufacturing capabilities. West African companies showcased products adapted to tropical climates and cultural preferences, while Chinese manufacturers from Guangdong, Zhejiang, Fujian, and Jiangsu provinces presented competitively priced quality goods.
Notable Chinese products included PE garbage bags from Wuxi Beikang Packaging, thermos flasks by Wuyi Yuquan Stainless Steel Products, and household items from Quanzhou Axin Home. Smart appliances, oriental decor, and customized textiles particularly appealed to Nigeria's growing middle class seeking value-for-money upgrades.
Eight Thematic Zones Facilitate Targeted Business
The exhibition organized products into specialized zones:
- Kitchen & Dining: Cookware, cutlery, appliances, and cleaning supplies
- Home Decor: Artwork, ornaments, vases, and rugs
- Beauty & Fitness: Cosmetics, exercise equipment, and sportswear
- Health & Children: Nutritional products, baby items, and toys
- Consumer Electronics: Smart home devices and entertainment systems
- Gifts & Office: Business and holiday gifts, stationery
- Garden & Outdoor: Gardening tools, plants, and patio furniture
- Festive & Party: Holiday decorations and celebration supplies
Many exhibitors reported immediate sales success, with some securing contracts during the event.
Industry Forum Explores Supply Chain Development
A concurrent professional forum titled "Deepening China-Nigeria Industrial Cooperation for Sustainable Supply Chains" brought together sector leaders including representatives from Alaba International Electrical Market and electronics trade associations. Discussions focused on policy trends, risk management for importers, and supply chain optimization strategies.
Technology Enhances Business Matching
The exhibition's Uninet intelligent B2B matching system used algorithms to connect buyers and suppliers based on purchase volume, product categories, and manufacturing strengths, significantly shortening negotiation cycles.
Comprehensive Media Coverage Amplifies Reach
Extensive media partnerships with outlets including The Punch, Daily Sun, and Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) ensured widespread coverage across West Africa, while digital platforms enabled ongoing product exposure beyond the physical event.
Hybrid Format Extends Opportunities
The exhibition adopted a dual offline-online model, with the MatchupExpo.com platform maintaining year-round trading opportunities. Over 30,000 pre-registered buyers participated, including members of Nigeria's supermarket association NASON and purchasing teams from e-commerce platforms Jumia and Konga.
Market Outlook: Growth Potential
Africa's home products market, valued at $15-20 billion, continues expanding due to population growth, urbanization, and middle-class expansion. Nigeria remains the strategic gateway to West African markets.
The organizers announced plans for an expanded 2026 edition scheduled for November next year, aiming to strengthen Africa's position in global home goods trade.