Excitement builds as Ogun hosts international trade fair

Few days to the commencement of the 13th Gateway International Trade Fair, excitement has continues to build across the Southwest geopolitical zone of Nigeria as stakeholders get prepared to storm Abeokuta, Ogun State for the much awaited yearly event.

The trade fair, which holds from April 19 and 29, 2024 at the M.K.O Abiola International Trade Fair Complex, Abeokuta, will also feature increased exhibitors and product offering as well as a more effective transportation system to ease movement of visitors to the Trade Fair Complex.

Preparations are well underway to welcome participants to the trade fair, according to the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Industry, Oluyemisi Somorin-Dawodu, while speakng to journalists on the trade fair with the theme “Achieving Economic Prosperity Through Business Connection, Trade and Investment.”

Somorin-Dawodu added that this year’s trade fair is more than just the exhibition of products as a lot of other economic and trade-related activities have been lined up to make the experience more worthwhile for participants who will be coming from far and wide.

As part of the new innovations, residents of the state and other stakeholders will have the chance to win the grand prize of a two-bedroom bungalow in a raffle draw to be conducted during the Fair.

An entertainment village, expected to add more glamour to the event, while meeting the needs of visitors, has also been introduced by the organisers.

Somorin-Dawodu added that new innovations introduced into the event this year are generating excitement among stakeholders as the date draws closer.

She said that both the Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA), which organises the annual Trade Fair and the Ogun State government are working round the clock to give participants unforgettable experiences.

“We decided to make the Fair bigger and better. Among other innovations, we have introduced the raffle draw that will help to bring more people to the Trade Fair, and there will be daily prizes.

“The main prize is a two-bedroom bungalow. And we have also introduced the Entertainment Village where we are going to be selling drinks, food, etc. There will be good music and a live band,” the Special Adviser said.

Also speaking, OGUNCCIMA President , Engr. Mike Akingbade said more participants are being expected at the trade fair as a result of the new innovations introduced by the state government.

“I can tell you that we are working happily towards holding a more improved trade fair,” he said.