Cross River State Trade Fair 2024: Ogoja Council Chairman Commits to pursue Economic Growth and Food Security

The ongoing Cross River State Trade Fair 2024 gained notable recognition as the Executive Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, Hon. Christopher Eweh Agbeh, presided over the Ogoja Local Government Council Exhibition Stand.

Cross River Trade Fair 2024
Speaking at the event, Hon. Agbeh, accompanied by the Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA), Mrs. Cecilia Ogah Ekunke, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. Abigail Duke Orok, and the organizers of the Trade Fair for their efforts in showcasing Cross River’s economic potential.

Highlighting Ogoja’s rich agricultural heritage, Hon. Agbeh emphasized that the region’s abundant produce, if properly harnessed, could significantly contribute to reducing hunger, ensuring food security, and boosting the local economy.

“We are ready to collaborate with the Ministries of Agriculture and Commerce to encourage our youth to venture into agribusinesses that promote self-reliance,” he stated. “Government support in areas like paper-yam (yam flour) technology will not only extend the shelf life of our yams but also increase their economic value.”

Christopher Eweh Agbeh

Government Encouragement for Agribusiness.

Dr. Abigail Duke Orok, the Commissioner for Commerce, commended the Ogoja Council Chairman and his team for their active participation in the Trade Fair. She lauded their exhibition content and urged them to begin engaging youth in small-scale initiatives like paper-yam packaging while awaiting larger government intervention.

“The PEOPLE-FIRST Governor, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, is committed to supporting young entrepreneurs willing to explore agribusiness,” Dr. Orok assured.

Encouraging Youth Participation in Cross River State Trade Fair 2024

Mrs. Flora Takim-Ndifon, President of the Ikom Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (IKOMCIMA), highlighted the importance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in empowering youth. She noted that over 100 youths had already registered under their operations, urging more young people to leverage the opportunities provided by the Trade Fair.

Showcasing Ogoja’s Unique Products

A guided tour of the Ogoja exhibition stand led by HOLGA Mrs. Cecilia Ogah Ekunke captivated attendees. She showcased a variety of locally sourced products, including:
– Ogoja Stone-Free Rice
– Natural Ogoja Palm Oil
– Ogoja Garri
– Ogoja Locust Beans (Dawa Dawa)
– Ogoja Dry Okro and Powdered Ogbono
– Ogoja Yams (White and Black varieties)
– Ogoja Palm Wine
– Brooms, Melons, Peppers, Grapes, and more

Mrs. Ekunke encouraged guests to place orders, assuring delivery within 24 hours, regardless of quantity or volume.

Legislative Support for Agricultural Growth

In her vote of thanks, the Leader of Ogoja Legislative Council, Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to working with the Chairman to enact legislation that would enhance agricultural practices and foster an agricultural revolution in Ogoja.

Cross River Trade Fair 2024

The exhibition served as a platform to showcase Ogoja’s agricultural wealth and reinforced the commitment of local leaders to economic recovery and food security.

By Oti Joe Ashia
Divine Mandate Media

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