Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday declared open the 7th edition of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) exclusive fair in Lagos.
The six-day fair holding at the LTV Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja, with the theme: ”Sustainability of MSMEs on AFCFTA Opportunities for Global and Digitalised Economy”, has no fewer than 300 MSMEs operators in attendance.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Folasade Jaji, advised the participants to take advantage of the theme of the fair for empowerment.
“My administration is focused on the full and beneficial implementation of our T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda.
”This is with special emphasis on infrastructural development, power, mass transportation, wastes management, good roads and others, which will improve competitive advantage of MSMEs,” he said.
The Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Mrs Lola Akande, said that the fair would facilitate vibrant business clinic poised to kick start a new phase in efficient service and product delivery by the MSMEs operators.
According to her, MSMEs operators are the backbone of the state’s economic growth and development.
“As we commence the 7th edition of Lagos State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises MSMEs Exclusive Fair, it will also host a vibrant clinic.
“This six-day exclusive fair, among other laudable economic initiatives of the Sanwo-Olu administration, promises to deliver great economic benefits for MSMEs operators.
“The government has invested in the MSMEs sector with a view to harnessing the full benefits of growth in the sector,” she said.
According to Akande, 50 per cent of the non-oil GDP of the country is generated in Lagos State, while 70 per cent of the MSMEs in Nigeria are domiciled and operate in the state.
“As part of the efforts of the state government of promoting access to market for the sector, last year, over 280 MSME operators were sponsored to the 6th edition of the exclusive fair at no charge.
“Also, 130 MSMEs operators also got free sponsorship to showcase their products at the state pavilion during the year 2021 Lagos International Trade Fair.
“Also, winners of the lottery at the 6th edition of the exclusive fair were awarded N1million for the first position, N750,000 for second position and N500,000 for third position.
“It is therefore necessary that I implore all MSMEs operators to take full advantage of the 7th edition to expand their network,” she said.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Mrs Adetutu Ososanya, said that the staging of the exclusive trade fair was a testimony of the state’s commitment to MSMEs growth.
“The annual staging of this exclusive fair is an eloquent testimony of our commitment to the growth of the MSME sector.
“Our appreciation to all the stakeholders who have continued to partner with us over the years in delivering this robust platform to showcase the best Made-in-Lagos products to the world,” she said.
