By Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR
Entrepreneurs across Delta State gathered for the two-day EcoAction Summit, a transformative event organized by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor on Trade and Export, in collaboration with the African Women Power Network and the UK International Development Agency.
Held at the Hall of Celebration, Okpanam Road, Asaba, the summit attracted participants from all 25 local government areas, including members of NACCIMA, DACCIMA, the Women Chambers of Commerce, and the Delta State Export Group, alongside independent business owners eager to scale their ventures.
In her opening address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Export, Hon. Chief Shimite Love, emphasized the summit’s goal of equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills to make their products market-ready for both local and international trade.
“This program is about empowering informal sector actors. We want Delta entrepreneurs to confidently represent their products, identify their target markets, price their goods competitively, and attract bulk buyers,” she stated.
She further revealed that the program’s funding came primarily from external sources, as partners recognized the impactful work her office was doing in the trade and export sector. She also expressed optimism for more partnerships, stressing that the initiatives were sustainable and aligned with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s vision for economic growth.
Speaking at the event, Mary Olushoga of the African Women Power Network explained that her organization decided to invest in the summit because of its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs outside Lagos and Abuja.
“Delta State is a youthful and vibrant region, and we believe that supporting entrepreneurs here is key to moving the country forward,” she noted.
In her goodwill message, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Community Support Services, and Girl Child Development, Hon. Orode Uduaghan, applauded Hon. Chief Shimitie Love for organizing the summit.
She urged participants to take the training seriously, stressing that starting a business is one thing, but managing it successfully is another.
“Entrepreneurs must implement what they’ve learned. Many people attend training sessions, but only a few put their knowledge into practice. This is an opportunity that should not be wasted,” she advised.
The EcoAction Summit served as a crucial platform for Delta entrepreneurs to gain industry insights, connect with investors, and explore pathways to global markets, reinforcing Delta State’s position as a hub for trade and export excellence.