Ecobank Nigeria is gearing up for its inaugural Design & Build Expo, which seeks to showcase the latest trends, innovations, and sustainable practices within the fields of architecture, construction, building materials, household appliances, engineering, and interior design. Scheduled to take place from November 27 to December 1, 2024, in Lagos, the event, titled ‘Building Nigeria Together,’ aims to foster collaboration among architects, builders, and other relevant professionals. The expo represents a significant step for the bank, which aims to strengthen Nigeria’s economic landscape through modern design and sustainable construction practices.
The Head of SMEs, Partnerships, and Collaborations at Ecobank Nigeria, Omoboye Odu, expressed that this event aligns with the bank’s overarching strategy to bolster the nation’s economic development. The Design & Build Expo is envisioned as a platform for professionals within the design and construction sectors to display their innovations and connect with a broader audience. Odu emphasized the expo’s potential for fostering valuable networking opportunities among entrepreneurs, consumers, and other stakeholders, thereby facilitating economic interactions that would benefit the industry as a whole.
The expo is designed to attract a wide range of businesses, including real estate development, kitchen fittings, tiling and flooring, interior design, lighting, woodwork, electronics, and construction tools and equipment. Odu highlighted that as a Pan-African bank, Ecobank is committed to supporting economic growth in all the markets it serves. This expo is presented as a unique chance for industry players to not only exhibit their products but also to engage in discussions about sustainable practices, emphasizing the importance of renewable materials and energy-efficient technologies in construction.
A vital component of the event will be the opportunities for exhibitors to gain exposure to influential decision-makers and potential clients. Odu noted that participants would be able to showcase their offerings through interactive sessions, workshops, and live demonstrations, which promise to enhance brand visibility and provide insights into market trends. This engagement is expected to empower exhibitors to better understand their audience and refine their offerings accordingly.
In addition to the upcoming expo, Ecobank Nigeria has launched a series of initiatives aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and stimulating economic activity. These include cultural events like the Adire Lagos Experience and the +234 Art Fair, as well as the Ecobank National Schools Team Chess Championship and Oja Oge 2024. Furthermore, the bank has been proactive in educating SMEs through its MySME Growth Series, with the goal of reaching over one million SME operators across Nigeria by the end of the year.
Odu extended an invitation to all stakeholders and enthusiasts in the real estate and building sectors to participate in the Design & Build Expo, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in building Nigeria’s infrastructure and economy. The expo not only serves as a significant platform for showcasing the latest in design and construction but also represents a commitment from Ecobank to play an active role in shaping the future of Nigeria through innovation and collaboration in the building and design industries.
