By Bashir Bello
The Dangote Group has reaffirmed its commitment to economic development by announcing full sponsorship and participation in the 2025 Kano International Trade Fair, scheduled for November 22 to December 6.
According to Anthony Chiejina, the Group’s Chief Branding and Communication Officer, the company is not only backing the event financially but will also be actively involved in showcasing its diverse business portfolio. The fair is expected to host over 1,000 exhibitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
“Kano is a strategic hub for our operations and a vital commercial center for Africa,” Chiejina said, emphasizing the city’s importance to the conglomerate’s long-term vision.
He highlighted that Kano is home to one of Dangote’s major rice milling projects, part of a broader initiative that includes facilities in Jigawa, Zamfara, Niger, Kebbi, and Sokoto States. Collectively, these plants will have a processing capacity of 1.5 million tonnes annually, aligning with national efforts to boost food security.
At the fair, Dangote subsidiaries will operate dedicated help desks to engage with attendees, offering insights into partnership opportunities and business development. The company also plans to unveil new sugar packaging options, 100g and 25kg sizes, tailored to evolving consumer needs.
This year’s fair theme, Empowering SMEs for Sustainable Growth aligns with Dangote’s broader mission to foster inclusive economic development.
Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman, Senior Adviser on Special Projects & Strategic Relations to the Group President, noted that the initiative aims to connect small and medium enterprises with new markets and partners.
“Through our sponsorship of Kano Trade Fair, we seek to empower micro small and medium enterprises with opportunities to showcase their products, connect with potential partners and access new market”. She said.
Ambassador Hassan Usman Darma, President of the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA), praised Dangote’s longstanding support, calling the group a “major sponsor and strategic partner.” He revealed that the 2025 edition of the fair will feature enhanced infrastructure and expanded exhibition space, making it one of the most ambitious yet.
“We’re excited to deepen our collaboration with Dangote Group, especially in areas like SME development, backward integration, and industrial skills transfer,” Darma added.
