The Kwara State Government has once again declared its support for indigenous manufacturing, identifying local production as a primary engine for sustainable development and economic expansion within the state.

The Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, gave this assurance in Ilorin during a visit from members of the Muslimah Entrepreneur Business Forum. The delegation met with the Commissioner to discuss the upcoming Pre-Ramadan Trade Fair, an initiative the government believes will serve as a strategic launchpad for locally made products.

In a statement released by the Ministry's Press Secretary, Babatunde Toyin Abdulrasheed, Dr. Nuru explained that the trade fair is perfectly aligned with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's vision of strengthening the local economy. She noted that the platform would help entrepreneurs improve the visibility and competitiveness of their goods to meet international standards.

"The trade fair provides an important opportunity to showcase our local products and connect our entrepreneurs to wider markets," Nuru stated. She specifically highlighted the role of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), adding that the empowerment of women-owned businesses is a vital component in building a self-sustaining economy for Kwara.

By fostering these partnerships, the state government aims to drive job creation and ensure that indigenous producers can compete effectively in the national market.

Nuru assured the Forum of the State Government's continued support for initiatives that promote enterprise development, ethical trade, and sustainable livelihoods, noting that collaboration with stakeholders remains central to achieving these objectives.

She equally expressed appreciation to the organizers of the Pre-Ramadan Trade Affair, reaffirming the Government's readiness to partner on future initiatives that encourage local production and contribute to the State's economic development.

Earlier, Saliu Fatimah, the Convener of the Muslimah Entrepreneur Business Forum, sought the support of the Ministry of Finance and invited the State Government to grace the Pre-Ramadan Trade Affair 3.0.

She explained that the initiative is focused on economic empowerment, ethical business practices, and sustainable development among Muslimah entrepreneurs.

Fatimah noted that the Pre-Ramadan Trade Affair serves as a vital platform for enterprise growth, job creation, and community impact in preparation for the Holy Month of Ramadan.

She added that government participation and support would significantly enhance the event and inspire hundreds of women-owned businesses striving for excellence and meaningful contributions to society.