Makinde Seeks Stronger Snergy Between Govt, Chambers Of Commerce For Sustainable Economic Growth

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has called for stronger synergy between the government and Chambers of Commerce to ensure effective policy implementation and drive sustainable economic growth.

He disclosed that the state is currently ranked third in Nigeria’s Ease of Doing Business ranking, attributing the achievement to deliberate policies and sustained investments in economic infrastructure.

Speaking on Tuesday at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Oyo State International Trade Fair, themed “Trade Without Borders: Connecting Oyo Entrepreneurs to Africa’s Business Opportunities,” held at the Permanent Trade Fair Complex, Samonda, Ibadan, he urged stakeholders to take deliberate steps to sustain and leverage the achievement, noting that prosperity comes only when available opportunities are effectively harnessed.

The fair is jointly organised by the Oyo State Government and the Oyo State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OYCCIMA).

Represented by the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, he noted that the state’s seven geopolitical zones were interconnected, creating opportunities for economic activities and expansion.

He further stated that Oyo State remains the only sub-national government in Nigeria registered as a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a move that positions the state to better harness continental trade opportunities.

Speaking on the theme of the trade fair, the governor said the world has become a global village, making closer collaboration among OYCCIMA, the West African Chamber, the Pan-African Chamber, and the World Chamber of Commerce imperative.

He stressed that OYCCIMA and the Oyo State Government are mutually dependent and must work together to create value, generate employment, and support entrepreneurs.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, who represented the Commissioner, reiterated the state government’s commitment to driving economic growth through collaboration, value addition, and the promotion of locally made products, particularly in the agricultural sector.

The National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dr. Jani Ibrahim, represented by Chief Kola Akosile, described the trade fair as a vital platform for promoting enterprise development, showcasing Made-in-Nigeria products and services, and strengthening investment and trade cooperation.

According to him, the theme is timely and aligns with the objectives of the AfCFTA, which provides access to a market of about 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of approximately $3.4 trillion.

He reaffirmed NACCIMA’s commitment to advocating policies that improve the business environment, support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and strengthen collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the President of OYCCIMA, Mr. Niran Adewoyin, said the 2026 Trade Fair reflects a determination to move beyond conventional exhibitions towards economic integration, market expansion, innovation, and sustainable prosperity.

He commended Makinde for providing an enabling environment that has allowed local industries and investors to thrive, expand their operations, and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.

He also assured participants of the Chamber’s continued commitment to serving as a bridge between the government and the business community.

In their goodwill messages, the President of the Ibadan Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (IBCCIMA), Chief Emmanuel Ogunnaike, and the Babaloja-General of Oyo State, Alhaji Yekeen Abass, urged the government to protect the interests of farmers and adopt a proactive approach to safeguarding lives and property.