Revitalising Business in North-East Nigeria
The highly anticipated North-East Domestic Trade Fair is scheduled to take place from January 27 to February 6, 2024, in Bauchi. The aim of the event is to showcase the untapped investment potential of the region, and it is expected to attract approximately 300 businesses from both domestic and international sectors.
This endeavour signifies the 15th edition of the fair, a significant milestone occurring 16 years after the last event was held in 2008. The plans for the 15th edition in 2009 were disrupted by the sudden outbreak of the Boko Haram insurgency, particularly impacting Borno State, where the fair was planned to be hosted.
In a recent statement to “The PUNCH” in Maiduguri, the President of the Borno Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, Alhaji Ahmed Ashemi, expressed gratitude towards the North-East Governors’ Forum for their support in resurrecting the trade fair. Recognising the extensive investment prospects within the North-East, particularly in agriculture and mining, Ashemi highlighted the objective of the fair to attract investors to harness and capitalise on these opportunities.
Furthermore, the fair aims to promote transborder trade between Nigeria and the neighbouring East and Central African countries. Leveraging the New African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, signed by Nigeria and numerous African nations, the event strives to strengthen trade relationships and foster economic growth across the regions.
With the enthusiastic participation of an estimated 300 domestic and international companies, this event is positioned to serve as a platform for catalysing business ventures and stimulating economic expansion. The revitalisation of the North-East Domestic Trade Fair not only reflects the resilience of the region but also emphasises its potential as an attractive investment destination.
