Kogi state government has assured investors of safe and enabling environment has been created for businesses to thrive in the state.
Gov. Yahaya Bello made the disclosure while officially flagging off the 2023 Kogi Trade Fair which open on Monday.
The Trade Fair is holding at the Ultra Modern General Muhammad Buhari Civic Centre, Lokoja.
Gov. Bello, represented by the Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Umar Aliyu, described the state as a safe place for investment, adding that his administration has ensured ease of doing business through policies that encourages investment.
Gov. Bello called on indigenous producers, entrepreneurs to take advantage of the ongoing trade fair to explore the rich business opportunities available in the state, describing Kogi as a confluence of opportunities.
“We have made the security of lives and properties a top priority of our administration, making the State one of the most safest in the country.
“We have put in place measures that seeks to encourage indigenous businesses. We have put in place deliberate policies to encourage the ease of doing business.
“Be rest assured of incentives and waivers where necessary to encourage investment. We are mindful of the challenges faced by businesses, reason why we have allowed for flexibility for would be and investors in the State,” he said.
Gov. Bello commended the Kogi State Chamber of Commerce, Industry Mines and Agriculture (KOCCIMA) and other partners for putting together the trade fair.
He assured of the state government resolve to partner with reputable organization and investors in creating a vibrant economy for the state.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the President of KOCCIMA, Chief Femi Ajisafe said the trade fair seeks to showcase made in Nigeria exportable goods.
He said the theme for the Trade Fair, “MSME Value Addition and Enhancement as Catalyst For Sustainable Economic Development”, is meant to expose local producers and entrepreneurs to global market place.
Chief Ajisafe called on local and foreign investors to take advantage of the secured environment to invest in the State.
He said the Trade Fair is organized by KOCCIMA, in collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI), with support from the Kogi state government, Dangote Cement PLC; West African Ceramics, United Bank For Africa and Nigerian Shippers Council.
“The Trade Fair is also meant to attract investment, enable participants from corporate organizations, individual investors and manufacturers and policy makers to invest in the State economy.
“The fair will enable producers and manufacturers of made in Nigeria products to interface, facilitate linkages with SME operators and export market operators.
“The Trade Fair will enhance access to local foods and agricultural processors and manufacturers of made in Kogi products”.
Chief Ajisafe called on buyers and sellers to avail themselves the opportunity by visiting the trade fair ground, assured of a pleasurable experience of a robust and touristic sites.
