The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has urged all Africans to strongly trade, invest and build for a greater economic sustainability.
Chief Emeka Obegolu, President of the chamber made the call at the opening ceremony of 20th Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF), on Monday in Abuja.
Obegolu said that the fair has become a vibrant meeting point for ideas, brands, partnership and opportunities.
He said the theme of the AITF tagged, “Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation” reflects collective resolve to address pressing economic and environmental challenges.
He added that the AITF has also grown from a modest local exhibition into Nigeria’s most influential multi-sectoral trade platform and one of Africa’s most recognised trade events.
“This is more than a festival; it is a call to action for Africans to trade with Africa, invest in Africa and build Africa.
“This 20th edition provides a strategic platform for business leaders seeking expansion and investment opportunities and government institutions driving reforms and economic growth; as well as international partners exploring trade prospects in Africa.
“This fair will serve as a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs and development partners to examine how consumption patterns, incentives and taxation can be strategically aligned.
“This effort will promote responsible production, attract investment and encourage environmental stewardship consistent with the UNs’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),’’ he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that on the sidelines of the event, the ACCI hosted the second edition of investiture of National Policy Fellows (NPF), which the maiden edition was held 2024.
The NPF, however, honoured individuals who have made outstanding contributions to business and economic development across diverse fields, including academia, human rights, chamber movement, civil society, community development, improved public service delivery, among others.
The 12 distinguished nominees were also inducted.
The ACCI president said that their selection reflected the breadth of expertise and dedication needed to shape Nigeria’s future.
According to him, the NPF initiative underscores ACCI’s commitment to fostering a dynamic, innovative, and thriving economy.
“It also enhances Abuja’s reputation as a hub of economic excellence,’’ he said.
Mr Jani Ibrahim, National President of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), commended ACCI on its effort for bringing the exhibitors and investors into Nigeria.
Ibrahim said that the commitment would strongly promote investment and strengthen trade in the country.
“I am calling on Nigerians to think globally, act locally and compete internationally on contemporary global issues.
“We must remain alert to the shifting global environment climate change, free planting renewable energy and green finance must become national priorities.
“Nigeria must lead in digital trade e-commerce and innovation. We must strengthen resilience by boosting local partnership and diversifying exports, increasing growth in women and youths` trading,’’ he said.
Mrs Fatima Abdurrahman, Representative of Dangote Industries Ltd, said that the company`s relationship with the ACCI was a strategic partnership built on a vision for a prosperous and industrialised Nigeria.
Abdurrahman said that the chamber has been on a steadfast advocate for conducive business environment and the Dangote group immensely valued its collaboration with the chamber.
She said that the theme of the fair was not just timely; adding that it was profoundly strategic.
“It moves the conversation on sustainability beyond environmental concerns alone and places it squarely within the context of economic strategy and national development,’’ she said.
NAN also reports that some international representatives, while delivering their goodwill messages, expressed commitment in supporting the ACCI efforts in promoting the country`s economic.
