Inter-ministerial Committee, Nigeria-AfroAsia SMEs Exhibition and Summit visits FACAN
Oru Leonard
The Inter-ministerial Committee, Nigeria-AfroAsia SMEs Exhibition and Summit went on working visit to the Federation of Agricultural Commodities Associations of Nigeria (FACAN), at Katampe in Abuja on Thursday, July 18, 2024.
Speaking President of the Nigeria Bangladesh Business Technology Forum (NBBTF), who spoke on behalf of the Chairman and the entire Inter-ministerial Committee on the AfroAsia SMEs Exhibition and Summit (NAASMES), 2024, said the came
discuss the ways and means of contributing to the success of the AfrAsia SMEs Exhibition and Summit.
“Our visit underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between FACAN and the organizers of the upcoming AfroAsia SMEs Exhibition and Summit. This event, scheduled to take place from September
10-12, 2024, at the Velodrome, Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abuja, is set to be a landmark in fostering economic growth and enhancing bilateral relations between Nigeria and the dynamic economies of Asia.
“Already, pre-event activities have commenced including this visit, the Diplomatic briefing to be delivered by the synergy of the Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment and The Department of Trade and Investment, Ministry of Foreign Affairs including the pertinent Pre-Event Visit to Bangladesh to sensitize and mobilize the SMEs and other private sector participants for the event in September. The visit also coincides with the annual NBBTF Exploratory Mission to Bangladesh began in year 2023”, Bob explained.
He then enumerated FACAN’s role in the collaboration initiative, which he said is pivotal.
“Your association, with its extensive experience
and influence in the agricultural commodities sector, brings unparalleled value to the table. FACAN has
also been involved directly and collaboratively in sector and broad-based exhibitions. The collaborative
delivery of this world-class exhibition and summit hinges on leveraging your expertise, sectoral knowledge and the clout that FACAN commands within the commodities industry.
Key Points of Collaboration:
1. Expertise and Insight:
FACAN’s extensive knowledge and experience in agricultural commodities will provide
invaluable insights into the strategic planning and execution of the exhibition. Your involvement
ensures that the event will address pertinent issues and opportunities within the agricultural sector, paving the way for sustainable growth and innovation.
2. Network and Clout:
The reach and influence of FACAN within the agricultural community are unmatched. By
mobilizing your extensive network of stakeholders, including farmers, producers, and traders, we
can ensure widespread participation and engagement. This will not only enrich the event but also
amplify its impact on the agricultural sector.
3. Promotion and Advocacy:
FACAN’s endorsement of the AfroAsia SMEs Exhibition and Summit will significantly enhance
its credibility and visibility. Your active promotion and advocacy efforts will attract key players
and stakeholders from both Nigeria and Asia, fostering new partnerships and collaborations.
4. Resource Mobilization:
Your ability to mobilize resources, both financial and technical, will be crucial in ensuring the
success of the event. FACAN’s support in securing sponsorships and endorsements will help in
covering the logistical and operational costs, making the event financially viable and sustainable” he listed.
NBBTF President urged FACAN to take up a befitting stand along with several associations collaborating in the AfroAsia SMEs Exhibition and Summit will not just a partnership but a strategic alliance aimed at transforming the agricultural sector and driving
economic growth.
“So far, NIPOST has graciously approved her “Official Courier” and partner status
amongst others like NOTAP, NBTI, NASEN, SMEDAN, NEPC, BOI, in the process of confirming their
partnerships.
“Together, we can create a platform that promotes innovation, fosters new business opportunities, and
strengthens the ties between Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Asia in broader terms. This is the current need in
Nigeria today and we are poised to make our contributions all the time.
We look forward to working closely with FACAN in the coming weeks to ensure that the exhibition and
summit are a resounding success; as your support, expertise, and active participation are invaluable to us”, he concluded.