Only one Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is functioning at the ongoing 2015 Lagos International Trade Fair. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that there was a long queue of customers waiting to withdraw at the only functioning ATM machine operated by Fidelity Bank on Saturday.

Mr Bolaji Adesegun, a visitor to the fair, complained about the absence of ATMs on the fair ground. “I have to walk outside the fairground to make withdrawal when I noticed the long queue at the only functioning machine. “It is not convenient since I have to pay another N200 gate fee before I could enter the fairground again.

“I appeal to other banks to hasten the quick connection of their ATMs on the fair ground and more exhibitors should provide POS machines at their stands to fast track sales.”

Another visitor, Mrs Agnes Shokoya, said that she had to wait for more thirty minutes before she could withdraw from the ATM. “I expect banks to have set up their ATMs before now because it is an important platform that would enhance trading activities at the fair. “Even if they are yet to start other banking services, ATM operation should have been set up.”

NAN reports that some banks at the fair include First Bank, Fidelity Bank, Bank of Industry, Union Bank, Stanbic-IBTC Bank, GTBank. Some of the banks are still erecting their stands, while some are only receiving cash deposits, networking for new accounts and offering advisory services to customers.

A Union Bank staff, who spoke to NAN on anonymity, said that the bank would commence full operation at the trade fair by Monday. The 29th Lagos International Trade Fair, which started on November 6, will end on November 15. The theme of this year’s fair is: ‘Enhancing Value Addition in the Non-oil Economy.’ (NAN)

•Photo shows ATM.