By Mike Oboh
Kano State Governor Dr.Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has said his administration is committed towards making Kano the most commercial viable centre among the 36 states of the federation.
He stated this during the opening ceremony of the 41st Kano International Trade Fair in Kano.
Represented by his Deputy Dr.Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, the Governor explained that the desire to attain the position of the most attractive trade state is clearly evident by examining the programmes and project embarked upon by the State Government in order to attract more investors from within and outside the country.
“Our administration as part of its dire need to change the outlook of markets and also to enable them compete favourably with international markets came up with the idea of ‘Yan Tebura Mall at Kantin Kwari Market which is one of its kind in the whole northern Nigeria,” he said.
“The cumulative effects of this project will be economic growth manifested in employment opportunities, job creation and income diversification thereby reducing poverty,”Ganduje said.
He further pointed out that despite the threat posed to continuing existence of commercial activities in the northern part of the country by insecurity challenges, his administration is not relenting its commitment to ensure the security of lives and investment in collaboration with security agencies that makes Kano one of the safest destinations.
Ganduje however commended Kano Chamber of commerce (KACCIMA) for organising the Trade Fair, describing the feat as indication of shrewdness and commitment of members to make Kano a role model in commerce and industry.
In his remarks, the Minister Of Trade Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo represented by Alhaji Tukur Muhammad said the theme of this year’s fair-promoting the growth of micro, small and medium scale enterprises for Nigeria’s accelerated industrial development is in tandem with Federal Government’s commitment to its mandate of boosting the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises in order to ensure that their products meet the acceptable global standards.
He further applauds the effort of the State Government and KACCIMA for creating a conducive environment for business activities in Kano despite the economic challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking earlier, the President of the Kano Chamber Of Commerce represented by the 1st Deputy President Of the Council, Ambassador Usman Darma said over the years they have achieved alot in promotion of local products.
He also expressed appreciation to the effort made by President Muhammad Buhari and Kano State Government in revamping commercial activities in the country.