35th Enugu International Trade Fair Begins
By: Chukwumerije Aja, Enugu
The 35th edition of the Enugu International Trade Fair kicked- off with a call on the Federal Government to develop the trade Fair permanent site just as that of Lagos and Kaduna.
Enugu state Governor, Dr.Peter Mbah and the President of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Odeiga Jideonwu made the call in their separate speeches at the opening of the fair held at the Trade Fair Permanent site, G R.A. Enugu State, Southeast Nigeria.
Mbah noted that for equity, there was a need for the Federal Government to build and complete the fair complex just as it had done in Kaduna and Lagos fair complexes.
“We cannot easily explain to our people why this fair complex is not developed, while that of Kaduna and Lagos had been fully built and developed by the Federal Government.
“I charge the Federal Minister, here present, to make a formal memo to the Federal Executive Council for its development. We cannot afford to wait any longer on this vital economic development move,” he said.
Declaring the Fair opened, Governor Mbah, represented by the Deputy Governor, Ifeanyi Ossai, described the theme of this year’s Fair, “promoting made in Nigeria products for Global competitiveness” as apt.
He said it is one sure way of growing the Nigerian economy and reducing poverty rate.
While commending ECCIMA for organizing the Fair, Governor Mbah urged them to partner tertiary institutions being research centers, to enable them carry out researches on different sectors and achieve greater results.
Governor Mbah however, urged chambers of commerce in the South East and South-South to facilitate the usage of various ports in the two regions for commercial businesses.
Mbah said the regions should begin lobbying for the opening up of viable waterways, commercial businesses and movements of goods through the River Niger Port, Ibom Deep Port and Oguta Port among others.
He assured investors of his administration’s commitment to providing a friendly environment for their businesses.
In his speech, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji said the theme, “Promoting Made-in-Nigeria Products for Global Competitiveness,” not only accentuates the essence of job creation and economic resurgence but also celebrates the nation’s dedication to elevating our industries to global prominence through the unique talents and resources the country possesses.
According to Nnaji, “Embracing locally produced goods transcends the quest for economic autonomy; it is a declaration of our national identity and a commitment to parading the exceptional quality of products originating from our homeland. Our focus encompasses an array of sectors, from agriculture and textiles to technology, underscoring the imperative for Nigerian businesses to ascend to global standards and foster innovation
“Where markets are increasingly interconnected, the trajectory of Nigerian products hinges on a strategic approach, emphasizing not only the quality and branding but also effective penetration into global markets. Products made in Nigeria, known for their authenticity and rich cultural heritage, are poised to capture a unique segment in both domestic and international markets’ he said.
The minister added that the initiative dovetails with the objectives of Presidential Executive Order Number 5 and his Ministry’s mission to champion innovation, science, and technology as key drivers of economic transformation.
“Under my Ministry, agencies such as the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), and the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) are pivotal in enhancing our local production capabilities.
“Our recent Technology and Innovation EXPO spotlighted significant progress in these areas, underscoring Nigeria’s advancements and potential for further innovation and collaboration” The minister said.
Olusola Akintonde
