An exhibition show of ‘made in Akwa Ibom product’ has been flagged off at the State Secretariat Complex, along IBB Avenue in Uyo the state capital. The exhibition of the indigenous products is staged by the state Ministry of Investment Commerce and Industry and the theme of the programme is ‘Promoting made in Akwa Ibom Products for sustainable industrial development’.
Making his remarks at the exhibition centre, the Commissioner for Investment, Commerce and Industry; Prof. Eno Ikpe stated that the programme is in tandem with governor Emmanuel’s administration policy geared towards making Akwa Ibom an industrial hub in the country as well as creating employment for the unemployed indigenes of the state. The Investment Commissioner who was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Investment, Commerce and Industry Sir. Oliver Udokpo noted that the exercise will help to showcase the arts, crafts, talents other products of Akwa Ibom people.
He said that a tour around various stand reveals the industrious, enterprising, skills and the hard working nature of Akwa Ibom people adding that the products are of high quality and can favourably compete with foreign products in the market.
The investment boss called on people to promote the locally made products by buying them and making use of it saying that it will go a long way to preventing capital flight in the state. He said that for the products to gain acceptability in the national and international market, a lot of exposure is needed hinting that it is the responsibility of the Investment Ministry to identify the producers of the locally made products with the aim to exposing them to the processes of certification by the different regulatory bodies in the country. Hear him; ‘This exhibition will offer a unique forum for manufacturers, foreign investors, entrepreneurs, agencies, suppliers, buyers and users of wide range of goods an opportunity to interact, exhibit, sell and buy as well as invest in the state.
It will also help to find new markets and opportunities, follow the latest trend and innovations, gets new ideas for their businesses and also evaluate their competitors in the market’.
Governor Udom Emmanuel in his speech commended the Ministry of Investment for staging the exhibition workshop saying that it has gone along way to energizing the hope for a sustainable industrial development in the state and further present a platform for entrepreneurs to be challenged to the faith of greatness. Governor Emmanuel who was represented by the deputy governor Mr. Moses Ekpo said the state government in partnership with Vks Nig.Ltd has established the Syringe Manufacturing Company with the capacity to employ thousands of people from the state adding that the decision of the government to industrialize the state is irrevocable.