The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to purchase locally made items in order to boost commerce and economic growth in the country.
President Muhammadu Buhari made the comment during the weekend’s opening ceremony of the 35th edition of the Lagos International Trade Fair organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
He highlighted that the government issued Executive Order 003 in 2017 to address this issue. Several efforts, he added, have been initiated to raise awareness and generate momentum.
The president, represented by Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo, also revealed that the country’s investment announcements in the first half of the year totalled $10.1 billion, representing a 100 per cent increase over 2020.
The minister said investors from Europe, China, Morocco and the UK are making substantial commitments to invest in the country and that the administration is working tirelessly to ensure that these commitments turn into projects that benefit our country.
The theme of the fair, according to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is compelling, relevant, and embodied in the goal for a better Lagos.
The governor said the fair has had a significant economic effect due to the possibilities it has brought to people and businesses.
“The importance of exhibitions and trade cannot be overemphasised in view of the economic impact on the economy, especially MSMEs”, he said.
He pledged to keep working to create a business-friendly atmosphere based on his belief in a private sector-driven economic growth plan.
