The President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Chief Emeka Obegolu, has called on the Federal Government to create policies that support and encourage production, reward innovation, simplify compliance, and make enterprises more competitive. He made this statement at the opening ceremony of the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF) in Abuja. The theme of the fair, “Resilience: Trade, Taxation and the Economy,” reflects the current realities facing businesses.
The Abuja International Trade Fair has grown into a leading platform where businesses meet markets, products meet consumers, ideas attract investment, and entrepreneurs discover opportunities for growth and expansion. Over the years, the fair has evolved into a major event that brings together businesses, investors, institutions, and visitors. The 21st edition of the fair reflects the confidence that exhibitors, investors, institutions, and visitors continue to place in the AITF as a marketplace for trade, investment, partnerships, and national development.
Nigerian businesses operate in an environment marked by inflationary pressures, exchange-rate volatility, infrastructure gaps, changing consumer behavior, high operating costs, and evolving tax and regulatory requirements. Despite these challenges, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, farmers, service providers, and innovators have continued to adapt, invest, create jobs, and explore new markets. Their determination demonstrates that the Nigerian private sector remains a vital pillar of the national economy.
The 21st Abuja International Trade Fair will bring together over 500 exhibitors, showcase more than 10,000 products, services, and solutions, and attract close to 100,000 visitors over its 12-day duration. The fair will provide opportunities for business-to-business and business-to-government engagements, product exhibitions, investment networking, policy dialogue, fashion and creative displays, cultural activities, and consumer interaction.
Chief Emeka Obegolu noted that Nigeria needs a business environment that enables enterprises to grow, invest, and create jobs. A sound tax system must generate revenue for public services and national development while being fair, predictable, transparent, and growth-oriented. This can be achieved by expanding the tax base by supporting more businesses to formalize and prosper, rather than imposing burdens that weaken already fragile enterprises.
The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the private sector and creating business opportunities. The ACCI president emphasized that the fair is designed to create commercial linkages that businesses need to thrive. The event will also provide a platform for policy dialogue, which is crucial for the growth and development of businesses in Nigeria.
The 21st Abuja International Trade Fair is a celebration of enterprise, innovation, productivity, and the enduring resilience of Nigerian businesses. The fair will provide a platform for businesses to showcase their products and services, network with potential investors, and explore new markets. The event is expected to contribute to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy by promoting trade, investment, and entrepreneurship.
Key points
- The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged the Federal Government to create policies that support and encourage production, innovation, and competitiveness.
- The 21st Abuja International Trade Fair will bring together over 500 exhibitors and attract close to 100,000 visitors over its 12-day duration.
- The fair will provide opportunities for business-to-business and business-to-government engagements, product exhibitions, investment networking, and policy dialogue.
