Cross River Trade Fair: Commissioner seeks collaboration with Lafarge
By Uket Oka (Calabar)
Cross River State Ministry of Commerce has solicited the collaboration of a leading cement manufacturing firm, Lafarge Africa Plc for sponsorship of the 2024 State Trade Fair.
The appeal which comes as preparations for the hosting of the Cross River State 2024 Trade Fair slated for November this year gathers momentum, is to enable the Ministry to deliver its expected outcome.
The State Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. Abigail Duke-Orok made the appeal when she led a delegation to visit the Cement manufacturing giant in the State.
Orok-Duke said the visit was necessitated by the need to mobilize resources as well as elicit participation in the fast approaching Trade Fair.
“In our quest as government to deliver topnotch services towards a rebranded economy through the Trade Fair, we are living no stone unturned in guaranteeing active private sector participation.
“As you may be aware, prizes would be awarded to the best three exhibitors and grants given to cooperatives. Government alone cannot shoulder every responsibility. We are making conscious effort to galvanize resources,” the Commissioner said.
She further stated that to achieve maximum results and high quality service for the event, partnership and participation of Lafarge Africa Plc is necessary as it would add colour and weight to the Trade Fair.
Responding, the Public Affairs Manager, South East/South South, Lafarge Africa Plc, Mr. Inyang Bassey, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner and her team for deeming it necessary to collaborate with Lafarge for the forthcoming event.
Bassey said the company was happy doing business in the State due to its robust security architecture and peaceful environment which he noted, are vital for ease of doing business.
He promised to convey the message of the Commissioner to the company for necessary action.
The Public Affairs Manager, South East/South South, Lafarge Africa Plc also expressed optimism that with the already existing symbiotic relationship between his company and Cross River State, Lafarge would be delighted to partner with government in that regard.
“Cross River is really a place to do business; a place with peace loving and hospitable people. For the support and encouragements from the State, Lafarge Africa Plc will not renege on its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to the government and its people. We will continue to do our best to keep the relationship intact.” Inyang noted.
