By Bashir Bello, Abuja
The 47th Kaduna International Trade Fair Seminar held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the Kaduna International Trade and Investment Centre, Rigachikun, brought together policymakers, business leaders, and academics to deliberate on Nigeria’s economic future under the theme “From Reforms to Results: Economic Transformation through Sustained Local Content Development.”
Delivering his keynote address, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, former Governor of Katsina State and current Chairman of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), underscored the importance of reforms and local content development in stabilising Nigeria’s economy.
“Nigeria is at a critical stage in her economic journey. The present administration has embarked on far-reaching reforms aimed at stabilising the economy, strengthening institutions, improving productivity, and laying the foundation for sustainable growth,” Masari said.
He noted that while reforms may be demanding, they are essential for long-term resilience and shared prosperity. According to him, local content development remains central to these reforms, serving as a strategy for job creation, industrial growth, value addition, and reduced dependence on imports.
Masari revealed that TETFund is complementing government efforts by investing ₦10 billion in skills development initiatives in 2026, aimed at empowering local enterprises, supporting indigenous innovation, and strengthening access to finance, skills, and infrastructure.
Commending the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA) for its consistency in sustaining the trade fair despite economic challenges, Masari described the Chamber’s resilience as “worthy of commendation.”
In his welcome address, Alhaji Farouk Suleiman Farsman, President of KADCCIMA, expressed gratitude to participants and dignitaries, including the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani who was represented at the seminar.
He paid special tribute to Masari for chairing the seminar, describing him as “a leader whose record of exemplary public service and national development speaks volumes.”
Farsman also acknowledged the Guest Speaker, Professor Seth Akutson, a respected scholar and entrepreneurship expert, whose insights were expected to enrich the discussions.
Highlighting the significance of the seminar, Farsman said:
“Beyond exhibitions and commercial activities, this platform provides an opportunity for serious reflection, honest dialogue, and constructive engagement on issues that affect our economy, our businesses, and our collective prosperity. It is here that policy meets practice, and ideas are transformed into actionable solutions.”
He stressed that local content development is no longer optional but a strategic imperative for Nigeria’s economic survival and global competitiveness.
“By supporting local industries, promoting indigenous capacity, and encouraging value addition within our borders, we can build a resilient economy that works for our people and competes globally,” he said.
Farsman urged participants to engage actively and contribute practical recommendations that could shape policies and strategies for sustainable growth in Kaduna State and Nigeria at large.
