Dangote conglomerate emphasises role of SMEs
Dangote Group has said no nation can talk about economic development without acknowledging the role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Mr Hashem Ahmed, Senior Manager, Dangote Group said in Abuja at the on-going 2018 International Trade Fair.
The theme of the fair is “Enhancing Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) in Agribusiness through Innovative Technology “.
He said that the group’s priority was to empower women and youth with funding, job creation and training scheme.
Ahmed said that the government has been strategising and exploring different ways to restore the economy especially following the recession adding that the group has also been strategic in enhancing the various sectors.
Mr Adetokunbo Kayode, President, Abuja Chamber Of Commerce and Industry said the fair offers unrivalled opportunities for business development as well as a platform for all participants to showcase their latest innovations in products and services.
Kayode, represented by the Director General of the chamber, Mrs Tonia Shoyele said that the chamber now operates through four Centres.
He said that the prime Centre is the Abuja Trade Centre (ATC). The other Centres are the Trade Dispute Resolution Centre (DRC), the Business Entrepreneurial Skills and Technology (BEST) Centre for Skills and Capacity Development as well as the Policy Advocacy Centre.
“The ATC is responsible for hosting our Trade Fairs, Trade Missions, provision of trade data, trade facilitation, export information and documentation support, trade due diligence and other related support services,” Kayode said.
According to him, the theme is crafted in pursuant to the Federal Government vision in diversifying the economy from being a mono economy with total dependence on Oil to other sectors most especially agribusiness.
He said the fair seek to promote accelerated development of commerce and industry and promote revitalization and diversification of the Nigerian economy by promoting the nation’s non-oil exports.
It would also direct attention to the role of private sector in the Nigerian economy; provide access to resources and technology findings; and attract foreign investment into the Nigerian economy.