The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and the Nasarawa State government have entered partnership to promote sustainable consumption, innovative practices for economic growth.

Agabaidu Jideani, director-general, ACCI, said this at the Nasarawa State Special Day, 20th Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF) on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mr Jideani said that the theme of the fair was “Sustainability: Consumption, Innovation and Taxation”, adding that the theme was highly relevant to the partnership.

“Nasarawa’s role as an agricultural, industrial, and cultural contributor to the FCT economy underscores the need for stronger collaboration to promote sustainable consumption, innovative practices and inclusive growth.

“The relationship between Nasarawa and Abuja is both unique and strategic. Many of those who contribute to Abuja’s economy reside in Nasarawa, making it a vital residential hub.

“In addition, the agricultural outputs of Nasarawa, grains, vegetables, tubers, fruits, and livestock, supply Abuja’s markets, thereby enhancing food security and strengthening trade ties,” he said.

Mr Jideani said that the participation of Nasarawa at the AITF reflects the strong and historic bond between the state and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

He said that as immediate neighbours, their destinies were closely intertwined in ways that bring mutual socio-economic benefits and shared opportunities.

He noted that Nasarawa offered vast opportunities in real estate, industry and tourism, serving as a natural extension of Abuja’s rapid growth.

The director-general said that investors who may find Abuja restrictive or costly have increasingly discovered Nasarawa to be a fertile ground for business and innovation.

He added that the spillover of infrastructure, population and commerce continues to deepen the integration of the economies.

He said that the fair was not just an exhibition, but a platform to strengthen partnerships, deepen investments and unlock the enormous potential between the two communities.

“We encourage all participants to explore the opportunities that Nasarawa state presents, while also leveraging the enabling environment of Abuja, so that together we can build a stronger economy for Nigeria.

“On behalf of the ACCI, I commend the governor of the state and the good people of the state for their continued partnership, enterprise and commitment to development.

“Together, let us build bridges of prosperity that will make Nigeria greater,” he said.

Mohammed Ottos, commissioner for trade, industry and investment of Nasarawa, said the state would continue to pursue policies that encourage partnerships and create job opportunities to boost the economy.

Mr Otto said that the efforts would guarantee prosperity for the people of the state and Nigeria at large.

“Nasarawa State is not just managing resources, we are building an economy of possibilities, where every investment becomes a story of growth and every partnership is a step towards a shared prosperity,” he said.

(NAN)