Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State says he will continue to bridge the gap between producers and consumers to foster good relationships.

Mr Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance on Friday at a conference and exhibition to commemorate World Consumer Rights Day, held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The conference, with the theme: “Fair and Responsible AI for Consumers”, was organised by Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA).

The World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually on March 15.

The annual event is used to draw attention to the plight of consumers world over, with a view to ensuring the rights of consumers are not only protected but also promoted.

The governor said mutual understanding between consumers and producers underscored the symbiotic and interdependent relationship that existed between the two entities within any economy.

He, therefore, urged consumers and producers to foster an enduring partnership, rather than relationships that could impede sustainable growth and development in the economic value chain.

According to him, the call is necessary because it reflects a broader acknowledgement of the interconnectedness of economic actors and the need for harmonious interactions to address challenges, innovate, and adapt to changing market dynamics.

“Consumers and producers are not adversaries but rather partners in a complex economic ecosystem.

“While consumers rely on producers to supply goods and services, producers, in turn, depend on consumer demand to drive their businesses forward,” he said.

The governor assured that his administration would continue to create an enabling environment that promotes fair competition, protects consumer rights, and supports the development of small and medium-sized enterprises.

He advocated for a more harmonious and inclusive approach to economic development that benefits all stakeholders.

Earlier, Abiodun Tobun, chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly committee on commerce, cooperatives, trade and investment, advised LASCOPA on strengthening its relationship with the judiciary.

According to him, this will ensure speedy trials for court cases bordering on breach of consumer rights as well as increase confidence in the activities of the agency.

Also, in his goodwill message Biran Fall, QNET’s regional manager for sub-Saharan Africa, urged everyone to continue advocating for consumer rights within their communities.

Mr Fall, who was represented by Nana Quartey, QNET’s senior regional legal counsel for Sub Sahara Africa, stressed the importance of education and consumer rights in order to make informed choices and hold businesses accountable for their actions.

“Through education, consumers gain the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and protect themselves from exploitation and demand accountability.

“Empowered consumers safeguard their interests and contribute to a more transparent and competitive marketplace that benefits society as a whole.

“This significantly strengthens consumer protection laws by enabling consumers to make informed purchase decisions.

“Educated consumers are also better equipped to identify fraudulent or deceptive practices, report violations of their rights, and advocate for policies that safeguard their interests,” Mr Fall said.

Qnet is a wellness and fitness direct selling company.

(NAN)