Thirty-four states out of 35 failed to honour invitations to attend the just-concluded 35th Enugu International Trade Fair, which the Enugu government hosted.

Only Abuja, Ebonyi and the host, Enugu, graced the 11-day international trade fair.

The fair began on April 5 and ended on April 15.

Reacting, the Enugu Chamber of Commerce director-general, Uche Mbah, said the chamber followed due diligence in inviting all states to the fair.

Mr Mbah noted that official letters were sent, and official follow-ups on the letters were made to ensure their presence and availability.

He said, “We did everything to get them to add colour and increase the showcasing of products from different parts of the country and their investment viability. We did put in spirited efforts to see that all states participated, as most of them did previously.

“But it is unfortunate that many did not respond after receiving official letters, phone calls and interpersonal follow-ups were made. 

“We got clear assurances from Kano state, but they did not show up. We pushed harder to get Abia state but in the end, we were told that the governor did not approve.”

Over 100 organisations attended the fair, including over 50 private companies and over 45 federal and state government ministries, agencies, and departments. 

(NAN)