By David Adeoye

Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says his government is committed to improving trade routes towards enhancing regional connectivity.

Makinde stated this on Monday at the opening of the Oyo State International Trade Fair, tagged ‘EXPOYO 2025, holding at the Trade Fair Complex, Samonda, Ibadan.

The governor, represented by his deputy, Mr Bayo Lawal, said such efforts would make Oyo State the preferred destination for investment and trade.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the fair is: “Achieving Food Security and Economic Stability in Oyo State through Massive Investment in Agriculture”.

According to the governor, the theme of the fair encapsulates the vision of his administration, which seeks to make the state the fastest growing economy in Nigeria.

He explained that ‘EXPOYO 2025’ was designed to serve as a forum for investors and business minds to explore new opportunities and collaborate in advancing trade activities in the state.

Makinde said that the trade fair was also a unique opportunity for local entrepreneurs to gain exposure, build networks and access the global market.

He explained that the effort of his government to create an enabling environment for businesses were reflected in the ongoing improvements in critical sectors like transportation, energy, agriculture and technology.

“Our administration will continue to prioritise policies and programmes that foster entrepreneurship and provide our youth with opportunities to create sustainable businesses and jobs,” he assured.

The governor further reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to continue creating the right environment for businesses to grow, thrive and make a lasting impact on the state.

He urged local and international exhibitors at the trade fair to make the most of the opportunity to showcase their products, build meaningful connections and explore new avenues for collaboration.

In his goodwill message, Dr Daniel Gbadero, the President of the Oyo State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OYCCIMA), said that agriculture must be rescued from subsistence farming.

According to Gbadero, food security and economic stability could only be achieved when hard and difficult farm labours are replaced with agricultural tools and machines.

He said that the replacement would make agribusiness more appealing and attractive to youths.

The OYCCIMA president commended the state government for making the trade fair an annual event, saying that the fair would put “our products on display to expose them to the world.”

He equally said that the fair would promote the sales of Oyo-made products towards developing the state economy. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Bayo Sekoni