Edo Sets Stage for Economic Boom as Government, Private Sector Unite Ahead of 2026 Trade Fair




From Chris Akhabue, Edo 


The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strong collaboration with the private sector as a pathway to economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

Speaking at the 2026 Trade Fair Pre-Launch Dinner in Benin City, the Commissioner for Business, Trade and Investment, Omoh Anabor, emphasized that strategic partnerships between government and businesses are critical to unlocking the state’s economic potential. 

He made the statement on Thursday while representing Governor Monday Okpebholo at the event, which was hosted by the Benin Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (BENCCIMA).


Anabor noted that the Ministry is dedicated to working closely with BENCCIMA and other stakeholders within a framework anchored on transparency, accountability, and mutual trust. According to him, such collaboration is vital not only for the success of the forthcoming trade fair but also for building a system that guarantees long-term impact and sustainability.


“We believe that when government and the private sector work hand in hand, we unlock opportunities that transform lives, create jobs, and strengthen the economy,” he said.


In his welcome address, BENCCIMA President, Omoregie Godwin Eki, outlined the broad objectives of the trade fair. He explained that the event will serve as a platform to showcase indigenous industries, promote sectors such as agro-processing, solid minerals, light manufacturing, and digital innovation, and provide small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with structured visibility.

He added that the fair will also facilitate business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) engagements, attract investment into priority sectors, boost tourism and hospitality, and generate both direct and indirect employment.


Eki stressed that Edo State’s economic future depends on sustained collaboration. “The prosperity of Edo State will not be built by government alone or the private sector alone. It will be built through deliberate, strategic, and sustained partnership,” he said.


Also speaking, the Trade Fair Director, Jonathan Oboite, highlighted the untapped potential within local communities. He noted that despite abundant natural resources and skilled manpower, many opportunities remain underrepresented in global markets.


“This trade fair seeks to change that narrative by building bridges—between local and global markets, tradition and innovation, and producers and opportunity,” Oboite stated.


Meanwhile, the President of the South-South Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Austin Atakpu, who represented Jani Ibrahim, commended Edo State’s efforts in improving the business environment. He noted that private sector growth depends not only on federal policies but also on state-level investments in security, infrastructure, and ease of doing business.


The event attracted a distinguished audience, including captains of industry, traditional rulers, financial leaders, entrepreneurs, and other key stakeholders, underscoring the growing interest in Edo State’s economic development agenda.

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