The Maiden Edition of the African MarketPlace Dubai 2025, a global stage for African and Caribbean excellence kicked off at the Exhibition Centre of the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Tuesday, 12th November 2025.
The event which will run through Saturday, 15th November 2025, received strong support from the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, as part of the Ministry’s commitment to promoting the State’s rich cultural heritage and showcasing Africa’s creative and entrepreneurial potential on the global stage.
Representing the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, at the African Marketplace is the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Adebopo Oyekan-Ismaila, who led a delegation of senior management staff to the event.
The African Marketplace Dubai, an initiative of the Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy (IALA),
serves as a curated platform that brings together African and Caribbean brands to engage international buyers, distributors, and investors. The platform also celebrates the continent’s vibrant culture while expanding multicultural markets and creating investment opportunities for the global diaspora community.
The 2025 edition featured over 150 participants from Lagos State, including representatives from the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Lagos State Chapter, led by Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, alongside other key stakeholders and entrepreneurs. The participation of Lagos State in large numbers at the event further reaffirms the State’s position as a leading cultural and economic hub, committed to building global connections and advancing Africa’s creative economy.