We’ll Explore Expos For MSMES Benefits – Says Sanwo-Olu

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed the desire of his administration to explore the potential of expos and exhibitions for the benefit of Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the State.

The Governor gave the commitment at the China Commodity Expo – Nigeria 2023, held in Lagos on Tuesday.

Sanwo-Olu, represented by Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, stated that his administration is particularly conscious of how the bilateral relations between Nigeria and China can be further cascaded to benefit MSMEs in the State.

He said: “The products, technologies, and innovations showcased at this Expo present huge opportunities for our nation to access and adapt to our production processes. They serve as a beacon for entrepreneurs, they are potential drivers of massive production of goods and signal the endless possibilities of trade and investment windows when parties are committed to it. We are determined to support the MSMEs in leveraging technology to boost the production and packaging of their products and services to align with international standards”.

Speaking further, the Governor noted that his administration has executed various initiatives aimed at providing a conducive environment for MSMEs to thrive.

“The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) is providing MSMEs with the finance required to acquire critical inputs such as machines. The State is also ramping up efforts to complete the construction of 44 Factory Units-Imota Light Industrial Park, which is about 90 percent completed. The Park will provide additional workspaces for MSMEs and small-scale industrialists in the State along with other interventions.

Consul General, Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Yan Yuqing called for the need to push Nigeria – China cooperation to new heights. “I believe with the joint efforts of the Chinese and Nigerian governments and business communities, the Commodities Expo will further promote the exchanges and cooperation between enterprises from the two countries”, he said.

The President, Ogun State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Engr. Mike Akingbade, stated that the China Commodities Expo – Nigeria is an opportunity to promote trade collaboration, which would open grounds for a greater economic relationship between the two countries.