By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
Oyo State government has showcased its investment potentials at the ongoing Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) in Algiers, Algeria, joining other Nigerian states in projecting the nation’s economic strengths at the continental level.
A statement by the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, on Wednesday, explained that the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, who led the Oyo State delegation to the trade fair, reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for business and investment.
He explained that Oyo State was determined to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework to expand exports, attract investments, and promote industrialisation.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, said the state showcased unique cultural heritage and tourism attractions, as a catalyst for job creation and revenue generation.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Professor Musibau Adetunji, emphasised the alignment of trade and investment initiatives with Oyo State’s long-term development agenda, underscoring the state’s vision for sustainable economic growth.
Delivering the opening remarks at the Oyo State exhibition stand, the Special Adviser to the Governor on AfCFTA and International Trade, Ms. Neo Tlhaselo, described the state’s participation as a milestone in aligning with the AfCFTA.
She noted that the state was strategically positioned to drive exports, industrialisation, and cross-border trade, highlighting that the state’s AfCFTA Implementation Strategy was ready for effective engagement.
She further explained that Oyo State was committed to expanding opportunities in agribusiness, tourism, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), mining, and other growth sectors, while welcoming collaborations through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), bilateral relations, and development agency support.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, gave a presentation on the Oyo State government logo, describing it as a symbol of identity, culture, unity, and agricultural abundance.
He noted that the emblem reflected Oyo’s pioneering role in education, trade, and governance, reinforcing its image as the true Pacesetter State.
He explained that Oyo State had reaffirmed its leadership role in driving economic growth and export promotion in Nigeria, while demonstrating its readiness to harness the full benefits of AfCFTA for its people and businesses.
The IATF, organised by Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the AfCFTA Secretariat, provides a continental platform for businesses and governments to explore trade and investment opportunities.
The 2025 edition has attracted over 2,000 exhibitors and 35,000 participants, with projected deals exceeding $44 billion under the theme ‘Innovation, Value Addition, and Green Industrialisation’.
PHOTO CAPTION: Special Adviser on AfCTA and International Trade to Oyo Governor, Ms Neo Tlhaselo.
