The Oyo State Council of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OYCCIMA), in collaboration with the Oyo State Government, has commenced preparations for the EXPOYO 2026 Trade Fair aimed at strengthening commerce, investment opportunities and economic development across the state.
This was disclosed during a strategic planning meeting held at the OYCCIMA Secretariat, Permanent Trade Fair Grounds, Sango, Ibadan, with delegates from the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry (MITC&I) and representatives from various city chambers including Ibadan, Oyo, Saki, Kishi, Ogbomoso, Iseyin, Igboho, among others.
The meeting was chaired by the Chairman of EXPOYO 2026, Alhaji Salau Wahaab, alongside the President of OYCCIMA, ESV Niran Adewoyin, and the Vice President of OYCCIMA, Alhaji Abiola Alli.
Call for Collaboration and Wider Participation
In his remarks, the Chairman of EXPOYO 2026, Alhaji Salau Wahaab, emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the success of the trade fair. He noted that the organising committee is actively sourcing exhibitors who will showcase unique and innovative products that reflect the economic strengths of various regions within Oyo State.
He highlighted potential exhibitors including traditional iron pot makers from Saki who have expanded into producing iron mortar and pestle, producers of shea butter, yam flour and yam products, as well as the Asabari Young Farmers Association known for organic farming practices without the use of chemical fertilizers.
According to him, local government chairmen have also been engaged to support prospective exhibitors by helping to reduce participation costs, thereby encouraging wider participation across the state.
Progress Report on EXPOYO 2026 Preparations
Presenting a comprehensive update, the Vice President of OYCCIMA, Alhaji Abiola Alli, disclosed that the upcoming EXPOYO 2026 Trade Fair is scheduled to hold from April 13 to April 18, 2026, with exhibitors expected to arrive from April 10 for adequate preparation ahead of the official opening ceremony.
He explained that the organising committee has formally notified His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry regarding the event through official correspondence.
Providing further details, he revealed that:
Twenty-five sponsors have been secured and rated.
Forty-nine exhibitors, including associations, have registered so far, with most having completed payment.
Awareness jingles have been produced in English, while the Yoruba version will be released following approval by the committee.
Promotional flyers have been finalized after corrections, with Kishi Rice featured as one of the sponsors.
The official website has been renewed, with commendation given to Mr. Jegede for managing digital platforms.
Social media promotion is set to commence shortly.
Banners are being prepared for installation at the entrance of the OYCCIMA Secretariat.
The committee will conduct follow-up visits to sponsors to strengthen engagement.
He urged city chambers to mobilise quality exhibitors within their respective zones and encouraged stakeholders not to rely solely on government support but to contribute ideas that will make the 2026 edition impactful, including awards presentations and innovative activities.
Alhaji Alli also commended the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry for its support since 2024 and noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) initiative presents significant opportunities for exhibitors, especially as Oyo State has aligned with the initiative.
He further called for stronger collaboration between government delegates and the chambers, suggesting that representatives of the chambers should accompany government delegations to trade fairs within and outside Nigeria.
Strengthening Government–Private Sector Synergy
Speaking at the meeting, the President of OYCCIMA, ESV Niran Adewoyin, reiterated the need for synergy between government institutions and the private sector. He disclosed plans to engage the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, in discussions with the Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Oyo State Chapter, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, to encourage local government chairmen across the 33 local government areas to sponsor potential exhibitors.
He noted that pavilions previously allocated to the Oyo State Government during the 2024 and 2025 editions were not utilized, urging improved participation this year.
The OYCCIMA President emphasized that AfCFTA has been integrated into the theme of EXPOYO 2026 and revealed plans to introduce an Agric Trade Group to further promote agricultural development and participation.
He added that since the revival of the trade fair by the Oyo State Government in 2024, young entrepreneurs have significantly improved their products and business capacities, highlighting the trade fair as a platform for empowering youths and encouraging innovation.
Agriculture and Export Standards
Contributing to discussions, Pa Amusan Ademola (Baba Agbe) stressed the importance of agriculture to economic development, noting that educational components should form part of the trade fair activities. He highlighted the need for awareness on export standards, particularly the use of organic farming practices, explaining that crops grown with inorganic fertilizers may be rejected in international markets and risk spoilage before reaching export destinations.
Way Forward
Participants agreed that all stakeholders must work collectively to ensure a successful EXPOYO 2026. The date for the next planning meeting will be communicated in due course as preparations continue.
