Ekiti promises improved support for business owners

Ekiti State Government has reiterated commitment to creating a more enabling environment for micro, small, medium and large-scale enterprises to thrive in the state.

The trade fair,which held from December 8 to 14, 2025, at the Fajuyi Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti,the state capital attracted exhibitors and stakeholders, including the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, Agbeyewa Farms, Wema Bank and Spectra Industry Limited, among others.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji assured traders, investors and entrepreneurs of sustained government support aimed at job creation, wealth generation and economic growth.

The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, Mrs Omotayo Adeola, said his administration would continue to provide a conducive business environment and technical support for micro, small, medium and large-scale enterprises.

He described micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as critical drivers of economic development, noting that strategic investment in the sector would boost economy, reduce unemployment, stimulate innovation as well aa improve livelihoods across the state.

The Governor commended exhibitors for showcasing locally manufactured goods and services, adding that such initiatives promote local content, strengthen value chains and attract investment.

He further acknowledged the presence of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund at the trade fair, urging employers and private sector operators to take advantage of the scheme to protect their workforce.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, Ekiti State branch, Mr Dayo Olumodeji, said that the agency  is statutorily responsible for providing social insurance coverage for Nigerian workers against work-related injuries, diseases, disabilities and death.

Olumodeji said that NSITF operates the Employees’ Compensation Scheme, which ensures that workers or their dependants receive compensation in the event of occupational hazards, while also relieving employers of the burden of direct liability.

According to him, beyond compensation, NSITF plays a significant preventive role by promoting workplace safety through risk assessments, safety training and advisory services aimed at reducing accidents and improving productivity.

The President of Ekiti State the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Alhaji Olufemi Hassan, called for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector to boost trade and investment in the state.

Hassan who described the trade fair as a vital platform for market expansion and economic development, maintained that improved synergy and access to finance would enable businesses to scale up operations and compete favourably.