Governor of Enugu state, Dr Peter Mbah Tuesday, declared open the 37Th edition of the Enugu International Trade Fai ki g for collaboration, innovation, and renewed focus on Micro, Small bag medium and enterprises (MSMEs) as drivers of economic growth.
The event, organised by the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, drew government officials, business leaders, investors, and exhibitors from across Nigeria and beyond, reaffirming Enugu’s position as a key commercial hub in Eastern Nigeria.
Declaring the fair open, Governor Mbah,who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Ifeanyi Ossai, reiterated the state government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment and supporting enterprise growth.
Deputy Governor,Ifeanyi Ossai
He emphasized that the administration’s policies are deliberately tailored to remove barriers hindering businesses and to expand opportunities for entrepreneurs.
“We recognise the place of business in lifting people out of poverty, creating value, generating employment, and boosting government revenue.
“Trade fairs like this are not mere talk shops; they are platforms to address real business challenges and unlock opportunities”, he said.
In a bold assurance to investors and entrepreneurs, the Deputy Governor declared the state government’s readiness to actively promote local businesses.
“For every business that produces in Nigeria, we are ready to serve as your chief marketing officer. Tell us where you want your products sold, and we will help open those doors,” he said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the President of ECCIMA, Nnanyelugo Onyemelukwe, highlighted the steady growth and transformation of the Enugu International Trade Fair, noting major infrastructural improvements at the fair complex, which included the construction of a 3,000-square-metre fully air-conditioned exhibition hall.
He called on the Federal Government to fully implement the long-awaited master plan for the development of the trade fair complex, which he said, remains largely incomplete decades after its initiation.
The President noted that the fair, now in its 37th edition, has evolved into a credible platform for business networking, investment promotion, and policy dialogue
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Stakeholders stressed the urgent need for policy reforms, improved infrastructure, and access to affordable financing to enable small businesses compete globally.
In his speech , the President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, a regional chamber leader commended ECCIMA for sustaining the trade fair over the years and for its visible transformation.
He expressed delight at the scale of development achieved within the fair complex, describing it as unprecedented.
“What we are seeing here today is remarkable. I have not seen it done this way before,” he said.
He commended ECCIMA’s leadership for its commitment to growth despite limited resources.
He added that this year’s theme, “Empowering MSMEs for Global Competitiveness,” is timely, as MSMEs remain the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, providing jobs and supporting economic resilience.
There was a strong appeal for deeper collaboration between government and the private sector to address persistent challenges such as access to finance, infrastructure deficits, and regulatory bottlenecks.
Stakeholders stressed that Nigeria must shift from overdependence on oil and instead harness the vast potential within its productive sectors, particularly MSMEs and agriculture.
The fair, scheduled to run from March 21 to March 30, 2026, is expected to showcase a wide range of products and services, facilitate partnerships, and open new markets for businesses.
Participants were encouraged to explore exhibition stands, build networks, and take advantage of the opportunities presented, including business masterclasses, raffles, and discounted product offerings..
