President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during the 2023 Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) organized by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), affirmed his administration’s dedication to providing essential support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to enable them to realize their full potential and secure their long-term prosperity. The event’s theme was “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value.”
Represented by Mrs. Lucia Shittu, Chief Executive Officer of the Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board (TBSMB), President Tinubu emphasized the pivotal role that MSMEs play in the Nigerian economy and stressed the government’s obligation to back these enterprises, recognizing them as the lifeblood of economic well-being. He stated, “It is our responsibility to furnish them with the necessary support and resources for their growth. We will persist in formulating policies, offering financial access, and implementing capacity-building initiatives to empower these businesses to achieve greater success.”
President Tinubu also underscored the importance of MSMEs embracing technology, innovation, and adapting to evolving consumer demands, positioning Nigerian MSMEs not just as participants in the global marketplace but as leaders and innovators, setting the pace for others to follow. He urged everyone to forge ahead with determination, resilience, and a shared vision for a Nigeria that stands prominently on the global stage.
In his remarks, Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu of Lagos echoed the significance of businesses connecting and emphasized the interdependence of business organizations. He noted that no business could thrive in isolation. The Governor was represented by Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medem, Commissioner of the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Cooperative.
Governor Sanwo-olu described the trade fair as a substantial ten-day opportunity for businesses to exhibit their products and services, gain significant marketing exposure, and establish fresh networking prospects with other businesses. He deemed the platform timely, strategic, and transformative, as it would enhance the investment ecosystem, fostering more competitive investment opportunities in Nigeria.
The Governor also recognized the potential of the youth population, considering it not as a challenge to be managed but as a great potential to be harnessed for the benefit of the state and the nation. He expressed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to creating a conducive business environment to promote thriving investments and move Lagos toward becoming a mega or smart city operating on 21st-century economic dynamics.
Governor Sanwo-olu assured the audience that the state administration was actively addressing the challenges confronting businesses and was eager to collaborate with willing investors to expand infrastructure for the benefit of businesses, the state, and the nation as a whole.
NAN