By Godfrey AKON
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council, NEPC, says it is leading 40 exhibitors to the Gambia International Trade Fair in Turntable Brusubi, Banjul.
Executive Director of NEPC, Dr. Ezra Yakusak, who disclosed this in Abuja, said that Nigeria’s participation at the Fair was sequel to NEPC and SMEDAN collaborative effort that led to organising first Nigeria – Gambia Trade Exhibition in Banjul.
Yakusak pointed out that the fair which is scheduled for 18th February–19th March 2023 is expected to draw exhibitors from different product categories such as cosmetics, agriculture, semi-processed, textiles and garments, leather and leather accessories, arts and crafts among other sectors.
A statement by NEPC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ndubueze Okeke, quoted the NEPC chief executive as saying that “I am optimistic that Nigeria’s participation at the 16th Edition of the Fair will create markets for Made-in-Nigeria products in the international market, enhance foreign exchange inflow into the Nigerian economy and further strengthen the economic ties between both countries.”
He reiterated the resolve of both agencies of government to provide Nigeria’s Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs, MSMEs, the opportunity to participate at various international trade fairs and exhibitions to enable them to showcase their products and compete favourably in the international market.
According to him, the economy of the Gambia is heavily reliant on agriculture but has no significant mineral or other natural resources. About 75 per cent of the population depends on crops and livestock for its livelihood. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and animal hides.
He added that since its establishment 47 years ago, the Council has promoted Made-in-Nigeria products ranging from manufactured, semi-processed agricultural and solid minerals in all the continents of the world.
