Thirty-four States declined to accept the invitation to participate in the just-finished 35th Enugu International Trade Fair.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), only three states, Ebonyi State, Enugu State, and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) attended the 11-day international goods, services, and technology fair. 

The expo’s theme was “Promoting made-in-Nigeria products for global competitiveness.” It took place from Friday, April 5, to Monday, April 15, 2024.

The Enugu Chamber of Commerce Director-General, Mr Uche Mbah, responded that the chamber invited all states to the fair with proper diligence. He stated that formal letters were sent to confirm their availability and attendance and followed up on them.

He said, “We tried everything to get them to add colour and enhance the presentation of products from various regions of the nation and their investment viability. We did make a concerted effort to ensure that every state took part, as the majority have in the past.”

Unfortunately, many did not reply when official letters, calls, and one-on-one follow-ups were sent. Kano State gave us unequivocal guarantees, but they never materialised. “We put more effort into obtaining Abia State, but ultimately we were informed that the Governor was not in favour of it,” he stated.

NAN reported that over 100 organisations were present at the event, including over 50 private businesses and 45 Federal and State Government Ministries, Agencies, and Departments.

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