The Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) has called on the Federal Government to develop the permanent site of the international trade fair in Enugu.
The President of the chamber, Dr Theo Okonkwo, made the call while briefing journalists in Enugu on Thursday on preparations for the 23rd Enugu International Trade Fair slated for between March 23rd and April 2nd, 2012.
Okonkwo said the chamber urgently needed about N15 million to enable it improve the facilities on ground for the fair, adding that it could not raise the fund at the moment.
“As I am talking to you now if we have N15 million we should be able to get the place fixed for this trade fair. Definitely, we do not have that amount with us right now, but we have hope.
“At the same time, we are also talking with the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment to assist us as much as they can.”
The president, however, thanked the state government for constructing the road in the complex, adding that ECCIMA was making frantic efforts to uplift the site for the fair.
Okonkwo said that ECCIMA had commenced the construction of ceremonial pavilion at the permanent site as directed by the Trade and Investment Ministry.
He said that about 150 local and foreign participants had so far indicated interest to participate in the fair.
The president listed the foreign participants to include those from South Africa, China, Vietnam, Korea, Ghana and Thailand.
He commended the Ministry of Aviation for efforts in upgrading the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
Okonkwo said that adequate arrangement had been made to ensure safety of participants at the fair, adding that Enugu had been one of the most peaceful states in the country.
The Tide source reports that the theme of this year’s fair is; “Transforming the Nation’s Economy through Policy Reforms and Enhanced Infraastructural Facilities”.
