The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), has urged the Delta government to revive the state’s trade fair complex in Osubi.

The body stressed the importance of a functional trade fair centre and urged the state government to partner with Delta Association of Chambers of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture (DACCIMA) in developing the existing one, as well as an exhibition centre in Asaba, the state capital.

The National President of the Association, Otunba Dele Oye made the chsrge during the Fourth Quarter Council Meeting of NACCIMA in Asaba.

The meeting was hosted by the Asaba Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ASACCIMA).

Oye said ASACCIMA, established in 1983, has been a tower of strength and a responsible member of NACCIMA.

He said the national body jumped at the opportunity offered to be hosted in Asaba by ASACCIMA.

According to him, NACCIMA has over 70 cities and state chambers of commerce, 439 corporate members, 13 bilateral chambers and 14 professional business associations.

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr Anthony Idigbe, who is both the President of ASACCIMA and DACCIMA, urged the Delta government to set up an arbitrage commission for quick resolution of commercial disputes.

The SAN also called for a review of the multiple taxation, which he said has become a burden on businesses.

He said multiple taxation adversely affects the ease of doing business in the state.

Idigbe, who is also NACCIMA National Legal Adviser, noted that Asaba and its environs had historically played prominent roles in the nation’s political and commercial life.

He urged the state to partner with ASACCIMA in the execution of proposed projects that will help tackle the challenges of youth unemployment, insecurity and poor power supply.

He believes that including ASACCIMA and DACCIMA members in state business delegations will allow businessmen and women to interact with foreign counterparts to boost the sub-regional economy.

According to Idigbe, an integral part of the private sector is the Chamber of Commerce, which has worked with successive governments in fostering development through Organised Private Sector (OPS) initiatives and is poised to do more.

The SAN urged the government to support efforts towards developing the trade fair complex at Osubi to international standards and to develop similar facilities in Asaba.

He called for support to set up an arbitration commission for quick resolution of business disputes by donating land and a building for ASACCIMA to manage.

Idigbe commended the state government for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, especially through infrastructural development.

He said: “I want to commend the state government for creating the enabling environment for business to thrive. Our successive governments have done a lot to foster commerce in the state.

“There has been massive infrastructural development, including the Asaba International Airport, ultra-modern Ogbeogonogo Market, Mechanic Village, amongst others.”

Delta Commissioner of Trade and Investment, Mr Samuel Oligida, represented by Felix Oseji, said a private developer has indicated an interest in remodelling the Osubi trade fair complex, adding that it will be delivered soon.

He urged the OPS to invest in Delta, adding that the state was safe and investor-friendly.

He described Asaba as the fastest-growing state capital in Nigeria.

The two-day event began last Sunday with a golf kitty and a welcome dinner at Chief Idigbe’s residence in Asaba, followed by a youth empowerment summit, an EXCO meeting and a welcome dinner last Monday.

Last Tuesday, there were visits to the Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof Chike Edozien, as well as the NACCIMA Council meeting and closing dinner.