Ogun State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA), in collaboration with state government, has concluded plans for the 14th edition of the Gateway International Trade Fair scheduled to hold between 7 and 17 February.
During a media briefing held at the chambers headquarters in Abeokuta, the state capital, OGUNCCIMA President, Mr. Niyi Oshiyemi disclosed that the theme for this year edition is ‘Promoting Business Through Partnership’, which he said speaks directly to the chamber’s commitment to fostering meaningful collaboration. He explained that the fair is designed to create awareness, explore market trends, strengthen customers relationship and uncover new business opportunities.
“This fair is a veritable platform for Business-to-Business , Business-to Business Government, and Business-to Customer networking, bringing together local and international stakeholders to exchange ideas and create value”, he said
Oshiyemi said that the edition aims to bridge the gap between policy makers, regulatory agencies and the business community, which offers a platform for interaction, dialogue and understanding, all of which are vital for driving economic development, creating jobs and achieving shared prosperity in the state
The chambers boss boasted that the trade fair is going to be bigger and better than its predecessors, as it would feature an impressive line-up of exhibitors, innovative products and robust networking opportunities.
“Our goal is to position Ogun State as the investment destination of choice in Nigeria and Africa at large. Gateway International Trade Fair is a platform to showcase the vast investment opportunities in Ogun state to the global audience”, Oshiyemi added
The Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela commended the chambers for its unwavering commitment of promoting trade, investment and industrialization through the annual fair.
Represented by Permanent Secretary, Dr Olubola Aikulola, he encouraged the leadership of the chambers in ensuring that this year edition surpasses the remarkable achievements of the previous ones
“As the organisers of this prestigious fair, I encourage OGUNCCIMA to fully assume its leadership role in ensuring the success of this event. The Gateway International Trade Fair is your fountain, your legacy and your responsibility to uphold’, he stated.
“While the government has been instrumental in demonstrating effective strategies in past editions, it is important to reiterate that our primary role is to create an enabling environment for businesses to to thrive”, Sofela added
He encouraged the chambers leadership to mobilise corporate organisations and their products for the fair, stressing that they should galvanise all networks and collectively work to attract diverse participation and showcase the state as the hub of commerce and industry in Nigeria.
“Kindly note that we will not abandon you as a Ministry, as our presence will be felt during the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as the Ogun Day event, which promises to be a highlight of the fair”, he emphasised
