The Edo State Ministry of Business, Trade and Investment (MBTI) has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revitalising the state’s economy through stronger trade systems and structured commodity markets. This followed a strategic meeting with the Nigeria Commodity Exchange (NCE) aimed at boosting trade and strengthening commodity value chains across Edo State.
Speaking during an engagement with the NCE management team in Abuja, the Commissioner for Business, Trade and Investment, Hon. Omoh Anabor, said the initiative is designed to stimulate rural economic activities, increase internally generated revenue, and position Edo as a leading hub for commodity trading in Nigeria.
He explained that the partnership seeks to move farmers and producers away from unstructured and informal markets where prices are often unclear and profits limited. According to him, integrating Edo producers into a more organised and transparent trading system will allow them to access real market prices, reduce exploitation by middlemen, and sell their commodities through a regulated platform.
Hon. Anabor noted that the collaboration will provide transparent pricing mechanisms, strengthen market linkages, and expand trade opportunities for farmers, processors, and exporters across the state. He added that improved access to reliable market information would empower local businesses to make informed decisions and plan better for growth.
Aligning the initiative with the Renewed Hope Agenda, he said Governor Monday Okpebholo is driving development through the state’s five-point SHINE agenda to build a secure, inclusive, and prosperous Edo State. He emphasised that working with the NCE would improve standards, warehousing systems, and quality assurance processes, making Edo commodities more competitive in both local and international markets.
The Managing Director of the NCE’s Abuja Office, Mr. Anthony Atoche, expressed readiness to collaborate closely with the Ministry. He assured that the Exchange would provide efficient trading platforms to guarantee fairness, transparency, and better returns for producers in Edo State.
