The new Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Ezekiel Shaibu Otori, has commended the efforts of Kogi Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KOCCIMA) towards making the planned ‘Made in Kogi’ trade fair a success.
Otori gave the commendation during a planning session in Lokoja on Thursday.
He assured that the needed resources and manpower to make the trade fair a huge success is available.
“I want us to be positive that the ‘Made in Kogi Trade Fair’ will hold this time around, even if it has not happened in recent time.
“Statistics, time frame and funding needs to be set aside to bring more weight towards what we plan to do.
“If no trade fair has been hosted in the state since 1995 and it ends up happening this time around, it will be a plus for the government. Product stands will be paid for, tickets will be purchased, revenue would be generated.
“The Kogi state government would be a direct beneficiary of this and their support is very important for the success of the trade fair.
“We will continue to brainstorm pending when discussions with the Kogi Government begins,” he said.
Speaking, the Director General, KOCCIMA, Samuel Enejoh, made it clear that it is not acceptable that other states have hosted trade fairs, except for Kogi.
He added that some states are even hosting trade fairs on an annual basis.
“Kano State is about to host its 42nd trade fair this year. Kogi State is blessed beyond measures. Our mineral resources are in abundance. There is no point why we cannot take advantage of these and showcase the rich potentials the state is known for.
“It is time to stop attending trade fairs and host our own. This will be important for economic development and generating revenue for the state,” he said.
The session attended by different ministry representatives.
