In pursuit of expanding trade and investment horizons, WTC Abuja in recent times have continually engaged with diverse stakeholders, agencies, and organisations across different sectors to foster collaborations and strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing growth and development across all economic levels.  

Most recently, WTC Abuja participated at the 4th edition of the FCT Small and Medium Enterprise exhibition (SME) expo held from 2nd -4th November 2023 at the River plate garden, Abuja. 

The event aimed at promoting and enhancing business activities for SMEs was organised by the Abuja Enterprise Agency, an agency under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) designed as a vehicle for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) development and has a mandate to promote and stimulate business growth in the FCT.  

The event drew a distinguished audience, including dignitaries comprising of government officials, industry leaders, and notable stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. Present amongst others was The Permanent Secretary (Federal Capital Territory Administration) Mr. Adesola Olusade, Mr. Chdi Ugwuade- Ezirigwe the Acting managing Director (Abuja Enterprise Agency), Mr. Haruna Abdullahi the Chairman (FCT Internal Revenue Service), Dr. Grace Abidoye the Director General (Raw Material Research Institute) the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and representatives from the Central Bank of Nigeria, SMEDAN, NEPC, SON and others. WTC Abuja was honoured to host and engage with these esteemed individuals, fostering meaningful conversations on the role of international trade, digitalization, and collaboration in driving the growth of the Nigerian SME sector.  

The opening ceremony featured keynote presentations and goodwill messages which reemphasized the need for effective collaborations and inclusivity for economic growth and development. Officially declaring the exhibition open, in a keynote address Mr. Adesola Olusade, the Permanent Secretary of the FCTA expressed the administration’s commitment to improving residents’ living standards by fostering opportunities through infrastructure development and socio-economic initiatives. He emphasized the goal of achieving a more inclusive society, providing everyone with the conducive environment necessary for success. 

The centrepiece of WTC Abuja’s engagement at the expo was the presentation of a goodwill message by the Trade Services Manager, Ms. Wuraola Onigbogi in line with the theme: “Unlocking Opportunities: Leveraging Digital Technology for Nigerian MSMEs under AfCFTA,” this delved into the transformative potential of digital technology in empowering Nigerian MSMEs under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She also highlighted the role of technology in enhancing competitiveness, fostering cross-border collaborations, and overcoming barriers to trade within the AfCFTA framework. 

She equally communicated the essence of the expo “as not just an assembly of minds, but also a convergence of ideas, experiences, and solutions”. Highlighting the diverse opportunities provided by the inception and implementation of the AfCFTA. MSMEs and SMEs are better positioned to not just thrive but excel in the dynamic realm of business. 

Reinstating a more realistic goal for Abuja Enterprise Agency, she said “through collaborative efforts and partnership, we can forge a path where Nigerian MSMEs stand at the forefront of global trade, empowered by a transformative force of digital technology”. 

The World Trade Center Abuja stands as a Nexus of opportunities and growth, positioned in the heart of the Capital Business District is tailored to redefine your business Journey, connecting you to a global network of possibilities through the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA).