The Commissioner for Trade and Commerce in Cross River State, southern Nigeria, Dr. Abigail Duke has held a road show to announced the kickoff date for the anticipated Cross River Trade Fair 2024.
Dr. Duke said that the fair was set to kickoff on Friday, November 15 at the practice pitch within the U. J. Esuene stadium in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State.
Duke noted that after a 15-year gap, the event promises to bring vibrant business opportunities and international participation including participants from the Republic of Cameroon as indicated by the Consulate.
The commissioner said, “we are expecting the business community across Nigeria and beyond. With five states already confirmed, the fair is set to feature a wide range of goods and services, creating a unique platform for buyers and sellers from across borders.”
According to Duke, “each of the 18 local government areas in Cross River State would showcase its unique offerings on designated days to spotlight the region’s diverse economic potential. Cross River State is endowed with natural and minerals resources, opportunities abound that are unique to these areas.”
On security, transportation and other logistics, the commissioner hinted that the committee was collaborating with local and national security agencies to put in place measures to ensure a safe experience for all attendees and vendors.
She explained that although there would be little or no gate fee, visitors would be expected to purchase tickets, which would be used for a raffle draw, hinting “visitors can expect competitive prices, because there will be a serious reduction in prices compared to the open market.
“There is no trade fair, which visitors do not get unbeatable and affordable items. Also, admission to the fair is free, with tickets available for entry that double as raffle entries, allowing guests a chance to win prizes,” she reiterated.
“With 150 participants confirmed out of the proposed 200 and more organizations still joining, she said, “the Cross River Trade Fair is on track to re-energize the state’s economy and lay the groundwork for profitable events in years to come,” Duke further stated.
In a strategic roadshow campaign, the commissioner and her team went through key routes including Marian Road, Ika-Ika Oqua and Watt Markets, rallying excitement from local markets before arriving at the U. J. Esuene stadium, the official venue of the trade fair.
Olusola Akintonde
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