Sola Adeyemo 
The Oyo State government is set to host a joint Odua Trade Fair organised by Osun, Ogun, Ondo, Oyo and Ekiti States in Ibadan, the state capital.
The government will also launch a Farmers market to foster entrepreneurship in the South-West region.
Honourable Adeniyi Adebisi, Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives made this known on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ meeting on ODU’A International Trade Fair, 2024 at the Trade fair Complex, EXPOYO, in Ibadan.
He said that the farmers market will provide an avenue for farmers to sell their produce at affordable prices, and also empower them economically.
He emphasized the need to support local farmers and promote agricultural development in Oyo State and its environs. He also commended the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde for revitalising trade fairs in Oyo State, citing the recent success of the Oyo State International Trade fair, EXPOYO, 2024.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, ODU’A International Trade fair 2024, Kola Akosile revealed that the theme of the trade fair is “Harnessing Food Security Systems and Natural Resources for Sustainable Development and Wealth Creation”.
He added that the fair is organised by the Odu’a chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (Odu’accima), and it will take place from October 18 to 29, 2024 at the Trade fair ground, Expoyo, Sango, Ibadan.
He said that the fair will also feature a showcase of the State’s agricultural prowess, with a focus on food security and natural resources in the southwest region to create wealth and promote sustainable development.
He stated that the 10-day event will feature business exhibitions, networking, and ten days of free Amala.
He said, “expected participants include 100-150 exhibitors and thousands of visitors from the six South-West states: Oyo, Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Osun while Products and services showcased will include agric and agro-allied products, manufactured goods, electronic goods, and services from agencies like CAC, NAFDAC, and SON”.
Chief Akosile Kola noted that the fair will also highlight artificial intelligence applications, technology displays, and satellite imaging for agricultural management, showcasing the latest innovations in precision agriculture.
“With the support of Governor Makinde and the efforts of the Organising Committee, the ODU’A International Trade Fair, 2024, promises to be a remarkable event”, he added.
