Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said the state ranks third nationally in Ease of Doing Business, attributing the position to deliberate government policies and sustained investment in economic infrastructure.
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Oyo State International Trade Fair in Ibadan on Tuesday, Makinde urged stakeholders to consolidate the gains by turning business opportunities into lasting prosperity.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, called for stronger collaboration between government and chambers of commerce to ensure effective policy implementation and sustained economic growth.
The fair, held at the Permanent Trade Fair Complex, Samonda, was jointly organised by the state government and the Oyo State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OYCCIMA).
Its theme, “Trade Without Borders: Connecting Oyo Entrepreneurs to Africa’s Business Opportunities,” centres on expanding market access for businesses in the state.
Makinde described the theme as timely, saying it aligns with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He highlighted the opportunities presented by a continental market of approximately 1.4 billion people and a combined gross domestic product of about $3.4 trillion.
He stressed that stakeholders must take deliberate steps to harness those opportunities while protecting the progress already recorded in the state’s business environment.
The event also featured a reaffirmation of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture’s commitment to improving the business climate and supporting micro, small and medium enterprises.
Closer cooperation among government agencies, financial institutions, development partners and private businesses was identified as essential to achieving those goals.
In his welcome address, OYCCIMA President, Mr Niran Adewoyin, said the fair was designed to go beyond product exhibitions by promoting economic integration, innovation and access to wider markets.
Adewoyin commended Makinde for creating conditions that support the growth of local industries and investment, saying businesses have been able to expand and contribute to the state’s economy.
He assured exhibitors and other participants that OYCCIMA would continue to serve as a link between government and the business community.
