9th February, 2023
Ogun state Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reiterated the need for Nigeria to move away from depending on oil to agriculture to ensure all round development of the economy.
Governor Abiodun who made this known while declaring open the 12th Gateway International Trade fair, themed: Energy and Agriculture, a panacea to Economic and sustainable Multi-Sectoral Growth: Ogun pathway to Economic Prosperity.
While emphasizing that investment in agriculture has now become pivotal to national economic growth, the Governor who was represented at the event by his Deputy Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, revealed that the state’s Ministry of Agriculture has been working with farmers towards increasing their yield.
He added that Ogun is also partnering with the Federal government and African Development Bank to develop agro processing schools across the state.
He added that the establishment of an Agro Cargo Airport the state, the first of its like in Nigeria was also aimed at changing the business landscape across Ogun and to create at least 20,000 direct jobs in its first year of operation.
He added that Trade fairs provide opportunities for expansion of trade, promotions of economic diversification and a verification platform for business owners to display their goods and services to the world.
He called for more public private partnership, stressing that Ogun state was extremely committed to partnering with the private sector in ensuring industrial development in the state.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs Kikelomo Longe, appreciated the State government, organising committee members and corporate bodies who have contributed to the hosting of this year’s edition, saying the importance of agriculture and raw materials to industries cannot be underestimated which informed the governor’s decision to invest meaningfully to improve the sectors.
The Chairman, OGUNCCIMA Board of Directors and past Presidents NACCIMA, Iyalode Alaba Lawson, while giving her remarks, expressed appreciation to Governor Dapo Abiodun administration for its unflinching support and investments in the agriculture sector, saying the sector was one to reckon with if any government want to succeed.
Also Speaking , the ODUACCIMA President, Chief Wole Akinwande, and his NACCIMA counterpart, Mr Ude Udeagbala, represented by Otunba Dele Oye, said OGUNCCIMA was one of the most organised Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria because it has almost the highest industries in the country.
He assured that NACCIMA will continue to partner OGUNCIMMA in its efforts to develop the state chambers of Industries.
Earlier in his welcome address, the president, Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Engr. Mike Akingbade, commended the state government for the support to host the 12th International trade fair as well as exhibitors for being part of this year’s trade fair and for contributing towards improving the economy prosperity of the state.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of a kiosk and cheques to four beneficiaries to assist them in their businesses.