The Oyo State Government has announced its preparedness to host the Odu’a Joint Trade Fair, a major regional event involving Osun, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, and Oyo states, in Ibadan.
The fair aims to boost entrepreneurship and agricultural development across the South-West region. During a stakeholders’ meeting on Wednesday at the Trade Fair Complex in Ibadan, the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Adeniyi Adebisi, revealed plans to launch a farmers’ market alongside the trade fair.
This initiative will offer local farmers an opportunity to sell their produce at affordable prices while empowering them economically. Adebisi lauded Odu’a Joint Trade Fair 2024’s efforts to rejuvenate trade fairs in the state, referencing the successful Oyo State International Trade Fair held earlier this year.
Kola Akosile, the Chairman of the Organising Committee for the Odu’a International Trade Fair 2024, disclosed that the event, themed “Harnessing Food Security Systems and Natural Resources for Sustainable Development and Wealth Creation,” will run from October 18 to 29, 2024, at the EXPOYO Trade Fair ground in Ibadan.
The fair will spotlight agricultural prowess in the South-West, with a focus on food security, natural resources, and wealth creation. The 10-day event will feature business exhibitions, networking opportunities, and a special treat of free Amala for all visitors.
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Akosile also confirmed that between 100 to 150 exhibitors, along with thousands of visitors from across the South-West states, are expected to attend. Exhibits will range from agricultural products and manufactured goods to electronics and services from notable agencies such as the CAC, NAFDAC, and SON.
Akosile also stated that the trade fair would also highlight artificial intelligence applications, technology displays and satellite imaging for agricultural management to showcase the latest innovations in precision agriculture.
Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses and enhancing economic development through initiatives like the ODU’A Trade Fair. He encouraged participation from all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain to maximize the benefits of this opportunity.
This trade fair is poised to be a significant event for promoting regional cooperation and economic growth in southwestern Nigeria.
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