The Kogi State Government has disclosed plans to host a trade fair and resuscitate its moribund State People Consumer Shop (KOPECS) to boost the state’s economy.
The Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Muktar Shuaibu, made the disclosure in Lokoja on Tuesday.
Shuaibu said the state government has commenced discussing with partners in Kano State for the successful hosting of the trade fair.
“We are not happy that for some time, Kogi has not been organising trade fairs, which open opportunities for businessmen and women to thrive as well as boost our economy.
“It’s a matter of time and this fair will be successfully hosted, more so that Kogi is a gateway to both the northern and southern parts of the country.
“We have a plan to build a huge market, where humongous goods can be brought and displayed for the desired patronage by all and sundry.
“We believe Kogi has what it takes to be a hub of commerce, and we have what it takes to compete with Lagos state, if not beyond its capacity. ” he said.
The commissioner disclosed that the government was considering resuscitating the Kogi state people consumer shop to control the hike in prices of goods in the state.
He expressed worry over the high cost of goods, especially food stuff in the markets as a result of the prevailing economic hardship in the country.
“This government is worried over the hunger and challenges in the land and will do all it can to alleviate the pains of residents.
“The shop, when on stream, will help to drastically reduce the prices of goods in our markets to benefit residents, ” he said.
On the economy, Shuaibu said the government was in talks with some foreign investors on how they could come in and contribute to the growth and development of the state.
According to him, discussions with some South African investors are in Agriculture, Tourism and Mining and very soon, Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) will be signed.
The commissioner said Gov. Ahmed Usman Ododo was determined to achieve the desired growth and development, to uplift the living standards of residents in the state.
