The Abuja Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has urged investors, entrepreneurs and other business communities to partner with the Yobe state government to boost the economy.

Agabaidu Jideani, director-general, ACCI, said this at the state’s special day in ongoing 20th Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF) on Saturday in Abuja.

Mr Jideani said that Yobe had embraced privatisation to reduce the government’s direct involvement in industrial production while creating space for private enterprises.

He said that opportunities existed for investors to revitalise companies such as Neital Nigeria Limited, with its shoe and tannery sections.

According to him, opportunities in Yobe are vast, ranging from mineral exploitation to agro-processing, trade expansion and industrial development.

“But these opportunities require investors, partners and enablers.

“That is why today’s celebration is important: it is an invitation to the business community here at the trade fair to see Yobe as a state with potential, and as a strategic investment destination”.

The director-general said that the theme of the fair was, “Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation.”

He said that the theme was both timely and relevant, not just to the national economy, but also to the states.

He said that the Yobe was a land of immense potential endowed with vast mineral resources, including limestone, kaolin, diatomite, gypsum, clay shale, trona, sandstone, silica sand, granite and iron ore.

“Harnessing these resources could create thousands of jobs, attract investors and accelerate industrialisation in the state.

“Beyond minerals, Yobe has also established itself as a hub of regional and cross-border trade.

“Its geographic location makes it a gateway for commerce across Northern Nigeria and into neighboring West and North African countries,” he said.

Mr Jideani, however, commended the governor of the state, Mai Mala Buni and his team for their vision and commitment to economic transformation.

“The ACCI is proud to partner with you, and we encourage all stakeholders present today to seize the opportunities that Yobe has to offer,” he said.

Mr Buni, said that the theme of the fair reflected a forward thinking vision.

The governor was represented by Kaigama Umar, the state’s commissioner, ministry of commerce, industry, tourism and solid mineral.

He said that the vision aligned with the state’s development priorities and shared commitment to building a resilient, inclusive and environmentally responsible economy.

Mr Buni said that the state was working to develop frameworks that support farmers who adopt climate-smart agriculture techniques, and incentivise small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that engage in green innovation.

He said that the state also encouraged renewable energy investors through favourable policies, and recognised communities that lead in waste reduction, afforestation and environmental stewardship.

“We must promote responsible consumption across all sectors in government, businesses and households.

“This effort means encouraging energy efficiency and renewable energy use; promoting sustainable agriculture and water conservation.

“It also means reducing waste through recycling and circular economy practices; and adopting environmentally friendly technologies,” he said.

Mr Buni said that the Yobe was committed to setting a good example through its agricultural policies that seek to modernise how to cultivate farmlands through mechanisation.

“We are integrating sustainability principles into public procurement, infrastructure design and community development.

“I am appealing to all prospective investors to come forward and take the opportunities that abound in Yobe for their businesses to thrive,” he said.

The trade fair started on September 25th and will end on October 6, 2025.

(NAN)