Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday, disclosed that the state has ranked third in Nigeria’s Ease of Doing Business, attributing the achievement to deliberate policies and sustained investments in economic infrastructure.
The Governor also urged stakeholders to take deliberate steps to sustain and leverage the achievement, noting that prosperity comes only when available opportunities are effectively harnessed.
Governor Makinde made the disclosure on Tuesday at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Oyo State International Trade Fair, themed “Trade Without Borders: Connecting Oyo Entrepreneurs to Africa’s Business Opportunities,” held at the Permanent Trade Fair Complex, Samonda, Ibadan.
The fair is jointly organised by the Oyo State Government and the Oyo State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OYCCIMA).
Represented by the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, the Governor emphasised the need for stronger synergy between the government and Chambers of Commerce to ensure effective policy implementation and drive sustainable economic growth.
According to him, the theme is timely and aligns with the objectives of the AfCFTA, which provides access to a market of about 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of approximately $3.4 trillion.
He reaffirmed NACCIMA’s commitment to advocating policies that improve the business environment, support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and strengthen collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the President of OYCCIMA, Mr Niran Adewoyin, said the 2026 Trade Fair reflects a determination to move beyond conventional exhibitions towards economic integration, market expansion, innovation, and sustainable prosperity.
He commended Governor Makinde for providing an enabling environment that has allowed local industries and investors to thrive, expand their operations, and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
He also assured participants of the Chamber’s continued commitment to serving as a bridge between the government and the business community.