Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday night, declared opened the three-day Lagos Shopping Festival, holding at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Stadium.
The governor was accompanied by his cabinet members.
On his Facebook page, the Chief Strategist of Chain Reactions Africa, Mr. Israel Jaiye Opayemi said enthusiastically: “Yesterday, we gave the city of Lagos her own shopping festival like Istanbul and Dubai. We created a magical fusion of commerce and entertainment with an ambience where people can shop and enjoy the best of musical entertainment. What a moment when Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu walked in with members of his cabinet to declare the Lagos Shopping Festival opened last night.
Africa’s largest 72-hour non-stop shopping experience in in its maiden edition. It features non-stop shopping and entertainment, which will further reinforce the city’s position as Africa’s leading hub for commerce, creativity, and entertainment.
On his official X handle, Sanwo-Olu likened the festival to similar festivals in Istanbul, Turkey and Dubai, UAE. He expressed the belief that the festival will further consolidate the city’s status as a major commercial hub in the continent and indeed her entertainment capital. “The Lagos Shopping Festival is more than just an event; it represents a fusion of commerce and entertainment. It will not only support local businesses and create opportunities but also showcase the vibrant spirit of Lagos, positioning our state as a hub for tourism, commerce, and entertainment in Africa”, he said.
In the same vein, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso said the festival promises an unmatched shopping experience, with deals, discounts, dance, music, food, fashion, brand engagement, and product sampling opportunities for residents and tourists at Yuletide.
“Get ready for three thrilling days filled with incredible deals, exclusive discounts, and a world-class shopping experience! The Lagos Shopping Festival will feature carefully selected vendors offering a wide array of products, including fashion, electronics, beauty items, home decor, gourmet food, and more. Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday gifts, the latest gadgets, or unique fashion finds, you’ll discover something special at every turn”, he said.
Omotoso also disclosed that the shopping arena will feature a children’s arcade, which will have brands, such as Indomie and Kelloggs, catering to children in a safe environment under the supervision of the Lagos State Safety Commission’s Safety Marshals, other care givers and volunteers.
Billed as the highlight of the festive season, the festival will feature some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars across generations, including Adekunle Gold, the soulful king himself, Afrobeat legend Wande Coal, energetic Teni, afro-fusion singer Bnxn, and new generation hitmakers Young Jonn and Ayo Maff. Top DJs DJ Neptune and Six Seven will be turning the wheels in what promises to be a 72-hour blaze of nonstop entertainment.
The organisers assured guests of free entrance to the shopping arena while attendance at the entertainment arena will be strictly through prior registration on the festival’s website: www.lagosshoppingfestival.com
According to the organisers, unlike many other December events, Sanwo-Olu has graciously directed that attendance at the festival for all interested Lagosians be made free to enable them join him, members of his cabinet, political leaders, and invited captains of industries enjoy world-class performances.
TPowered by the Lagos State Government in collaboration with Chain Reactions Africa, the festival is supported by leading brands, including Zenith Bank, Tolaram Group, First Bank Plc, and Guinness.