By ODEYA OGBETUO
All is now set for the take-off of the 2024 Delta State International Trade Fair Exhibition in Osubi Town, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Orodje of Okpe, His Royal Majesty, HRM, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd) Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe, at the palace in Orerokpe, headquarters of Okpe L.G.A, the president of Delta Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (DACCIMA), Chief (Dr.) Anthony Idigbe (SAN), said that the visit to the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom is to seek his support and royal blessing aimed at fostering economic growth and development in the South-South as DACCIMA sets to hold a trade fair within his domain.
Dr. Idigbe further said that DACCIMA has been committed to making business thrive in Delta State, stressing that DACCIMA will kick off the 2024 trade fair on April 20th, followed by another one in May 2024, and the last one in November/December 2024 at the Trade Fair Complex in Osubi.
He stated that the trade fair aims to showcase the rich tapestry of goods and services offered within the region, adding that it remains paramount in promoting local business and attracting investment opportunities that will undoubtedly benefit the state.
According to him, “We are committed to ensuring that the Trade Fair Complex remains a vital cornerstone of economic activity within Okpe Kingdom to serve as a beacon of prosperity for generations to come. DACCIMA is actively engaged in facilitating alternative power access through an Independent Power Project (IPP) in partnership with an esteemed investor.”
Chief Idigbe stated that there was a need to expand the Osubi airport runway and create an industrial park in the area to boost the economy of the State, adding that DACCIMA is out to facilitate business and grow the economy of Delta State. “We are steadfast in our efforts to support the expansion of the Osubi Airport. We are advocating for its expansion to accommodate larger aircraft, envisioning transforming it into a strategic hub for business and commerce to serve as a beacon of progress and innovation that rivals its counterparts abroad. The expansion, we believe, will serve as a catalyst for the creation of a vibrant business zone, attracting investors and fostering economic growth on a scale previously unseen in our region.”
The DACCIMA delegation that accompanied the president includes Rev. Lucky Oteheri, Chief Ogbuechi Okonkwo, Chief Emma Avworo, past president, Chief Simon Asite, past president, Mr. Richard Akaighe, Mr. Fidelis Onu, DG, Pastor Dan Iroh, Mrs. Mercy Najomoh, Mr. Matthew Akpobaro, Kudemo Nigeria Ltd, and Mr. Patrick Ofogba.
Responding, the Orodje of Okpe said that he fully supports any good move and plan to improve the economy of Delta State and Nigeria.
He stated that the Osubi Airstrip issue remains a very complex matter, adding that he and the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Emmanuel Sideso JP Abe I, have intervened in the past; if not, the airport would have been totally closed down.
He disclosed that they are in touch with President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Hon. Festus Keyamo SAN, over the Osubi airport development and have also discussed with President Tinubu over the reactivation of Koko Port, Sapele Port, and Warri Port.
“The Escravos bar is still a problem for ships coming to Delta Ports. It has to be dredged. We are suffering in the South-South, and we have to do something about it to improve the quality of life of the people.”
DACCIMA has also inaugurated the 2024 Delta International Trade Fair Committee, among them are Ogbuechi Patrick B.I. Okonkwo (Trade Fair Director), Pastor Favoured Akpochimara, Patrick Imhasuengbon, Pastor Moses Samuel, Pastor Daniel Iroh Ewoma, Mrs. Mercy Najomoh, Mr. Patrick Ofogba Jr., Mr. Fidelis Onu (DG), and the Ministry of Trade and Investment to ensure the success of the Trade Fair.
