By PHILIP NWOSU
The Federal Government has enlisted the partnership of entrepreneurs to rebuild Nigeria into a prosperous, self-sufficient country.
The Vice President Kashim Shettima who made the call said by embracing innovation, promoting entrepreneurship and leveraging on the country’s abundant resources, Nigeria can achieve its aspirations.
He spoke at the opening of the Commercial and Industrial Trade Fair 2024 and urged participants to seize the opportunity provided by the fair to forge lasting relationships and drive economic growth.
Shettima, who was represented by Dr. Mariam Masha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Regional Development Programmes, officially declared the 2024 Commercial and Industrial fair open, describing the resumption of the fair in the main ground of the trade fair in Lagos as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s economic development.
He assured that the Federal Government remains committed to reshaping Nigeria’s economic landscape to foster prosperity and sustainable development, adding that, “The revival of this platform reflects our dedication to driving economic growth beyond the oil and gas sector.”
He urged participants to leverage the fair as a hub for innovation and collaboration. “Let us seize this opportunity to connect with global partners, explore new markets, and forge relationships that drive economic growth,” he added.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, represented by Bolaji Akinremi, Director of the Economic Trade and Investment Department, called for an expansion of the fair’s scope to international audiences, emphasizing that there is need for stronger collaboration between local stakeholders and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, highlighted the fair’s theme, “Strengthening Nigeria’s Commercial and Industrial Sector through Trade and Investment,” as pivotal to economic transformation. She emphasized that the ministry’s trade policy reforms are aimed at enhancing ease of doing business and boosting Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
She also announced that Nigeria would host the 2025 African Union MSME Forum, with the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex serving as the venue.
In her welcome address, Veronica Ndanusa, Executive Director and CEO of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board, revealed that over 400 exhibitors had registered for the event. She noted that participation is expected to increase significantly before the fair’s conclusion.
Ndanusa highlighted the complex’s strategic location as a gateway to the West African market, offering businesses access to the ECOWAS region’s vast consumer base.
The Lagos International Trade Fair runs until the end of November, showcasing a wide array of products and services while fostering economic opportunities for local and international businesses.