Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has commenced the process of validating the draft guidelines for participation in international business expositions in order to make meaningful impact.
To this end, the ministry on Tuesday, held the National Stakeholders’ Validation Workshop on the Draft Guidelines for Participation in International Expositions in Abuja,
Speaking at the workshop, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs Evelyn Ngige, said the goal of the meeting was to work collaboratively, drawing from the collective wisdom and experience of stakeholders to create a robust and effective strategy for the nation’s presence at international expositions.
Ngige said participating in an international exposition should not just be about showcasing products and services, adding that participation should rather also be “about telling our story, highlighting our achievements, and forging valuable/ economic international alliances.”
Represented by the Director of Human Resource Department of the ministry, Dr Mimi Abu, she said “international expositions are platforms that allows us to engage with the world, learn from others, and contribute to the global exchange of ideas and innovations.”
The perm sec expressed gratitude to stakeholders for taking time to attend the workshop, adding that their presence demonstrated commitment to advancing the nation’s interests and their dedication to ensuring that meaningful impact at future international expositions.
“Over the course of this workshop, we will engage in discussions, share insights, and gather invaluable inputs from your wealth of knowledge.
“Your expertise and perspectives will be pivotal in helping to develop the guideline that would aid Nigeria’s participation in future international expositions and ensuring that our participation is not only successful but also aligned with our nation’s broader economic goals and aspirations,” she stated.
Ngige urged participants to keep in mind the significance of their efforts as what is discussed and decided will determine how they represent Nigeria to the world, shape its economic future, enhance the country’s global reputation, and drive innovation and growth in its industries.
She expressed confidence in the abilities and dedication of the stakeholders present that the guideline to validate will not only guide in successful participation but also to excel on the international stage in terms of trade.
“Our success will be a testament to our unity, vision, and unwavering commitment to the goals we set forth today,” the perm sec said.
Also speaking, the Director, Trade and Investment Department at the ministry, Mr Suleman Audu, said the guidelines were drafted after two consultative workshops in order to enhance Nigeria’s future participation at global expositions.
According to Audu, “expositions and exhibitions are organised to proffer solutions to fundamental challenges facing humanity by offering a platform to showcase developments in industry and commerce as well as reinforce partnerships amongst nations and corporate bodies for national economic development and global integration.”
He commended private sector operators, civil society organizations and association bodies for their continuous collaboration and support on trade related programmes with the ministry, which are making significant impact on the Nigerian economy.
“The objective of this event is to harness inputs and feedback that will improve the draft guideline as well as possible adoption of the guidelines to enhance the future mobilization of Nigeria businesses, captains of industry and other relevant stakeholders to participate in Global Expositions and ensure laudable outcomes that support national economic development.
He said the ministry will continue to partner with the private sector, association bodies and civil society on programmes and activities tailored towards effective participation of Nigeria businesses in expos and exhibitions.
“The Ministry’s expectation after this workshop is to ensure that relevant trade related stakeholders have a better understanding on benefit of international expositions and how Nigeria can take advantage of such engagements,” he said
He noted that efforts are geared towards pursuing a “Renewed Hope Agenda” by President Bola Tinubu to firmly position Nigeria as a global investment destination of choice.
Audu expressed confidence that this event will further enhance and deepen collaboration between Nigeria and trade actors.
