The 2025 Nigeria International Lighting Expo opened in Lagos on Wednesday, bringing together more than 120 exhibitors to showcase zero-carbon innovations reshaping the future of lighting technology.

The three-day event, holding from September 17 to 19 at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, attracted industry stakeholders, investors, and government officials seeking opportunities in Nigeria’s growing energy efficiency market.

Lisa Lin Xueying, general manager of the organising committee, said the expo was spotlighting cutting-edge technologies designed to make lighting greener, smarter, and more people-centred.

Ms Xueying, who also heads Zhongshan Company Ltd., explained that products on display included solar-powered lamps that store energy for self-use and smart lighting systems with adaptive brightness controls.

She said the expo’s theme, ‘Zero-Carbon Lighting: Supporting Nigeria’s Energy Transition Goals’, aligned with the country’s urgent development needs and its drive towards a sustainable energy future.

According to her, the programme also features expert forums, keynote sessions, and matchmaking events to help enterprises connect with international opportunities and tackle industry challenges.

“We have over 120 exhibitors from home and abroad. Light symbolises wisdom and hope, brightening spaces and reshaping experiences,” Ms Xueying said.

She added that lighting technology was undergoing a dramatic transformation, from advances in LED technology to the rise of smart systems, thereby expanding its role in modern life.

Ms Xueying also noted that the synergy between China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Nigeria’s Renewed Hope agenda had opened new avenues for cooperation.

Yan Yuqing, China’s consul general, projected Africa’s lighting market to sustain strong growth, particularly in LED products, smart systems, and solar-powered devices. She said Nigeria’s economic expansion, accelerating urbanisation, and infrastructure upgrades were driving increased demand for advanced, energy-efficient lighting solutions.

According to her, consumers are shifting from basic lighting functions towards intelligent, customised systems that enhance quality of life. She added that West Africa’s heavy investment in power grid upgrades and green energy projects was providing solid support for the industry’s expansion.

Ms Yuqing described the expo as a platform for deepening trade relations while encouraging innovation and wider cooperation between Chinese and African enterprises. She urged entrepreneurs to leverage their expertise to promote sustainable growth and foster stronger China-Africa relations.

Biodun Ogunleye, Lagos’ commissioner for energy and mineral resources, described the event as a marketplace for collaboration and knowledge sharing. He said the Lagos government was supporting households and small businesses with solar power, but called on stakeholders to help realise a 24-hour powered economy.

Yi Hon Ehab Sefeen, chairman of Shinning Star Global Smart Technology Group, commended the organisers for a successful event. He noted that Chinese investors were not only tapping Nigeria’s energy opportunities but also committed to contributing to the nation’s growth.

(NAN)