The benchmark for success in Ogun State’s commerce is no longer just local survival—it’s global competitiveness. This was the core message delivered by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, to a vast gathering of local entrepreneurs and businesswomen at the Deemakay Business Exhibition Season 7 in Abeokuta.
The Commissioner challenged vendors to urgently refine their craft, demanding that local goods and services be prepared to compete favorably with international counterparts.
The Platform of Resilience and Innovation
Addressing the exhibitors at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Adeleye lauded the exhibition as more than just a marketplace; she hailed it as “a vibrant marketplace of ideas, innovation, and resilience.”
She commended the immense courage demonstrated by entrepreneurs who continue to build and expand their businesses despite prevailing economic challenges, recognizing their determined efforts as a strong pillar supporting community and statewide economic growth.
The administration’s commitment to fostering this environment was also highlighted. Adeleye acknowledged the SME-friendly policies of the Dapo Abiodun-led government, noting that a supportive business ecosystem is critical to enabling local commerce platforms like the Deemakay Exhibition to flourish.
The Path to Global Readiness: Three Non-Negotiables
In her interactions with the vendors, Commissioner Adeleye laid out three immediate, non-negotiable steps for business owners aiming for global standards:
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Consistent Quality: Maintain unwavering consistency in offering high-quality goods and services that meet international benchmarks.
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Customer-Centric Approach: Adopt and enforce customer-friendly practices, which include fair pricing and courteous service delivery.
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Improved Engagement: Focus on refined customer engagement to build lasting relationships and enhance brand loyalty.
The mandate is clear: by prioritizing craftsmanship, service excellence, and consistency, Ogun State’s entrepreneurs can elevate their operations from local commerce to globally competitive ventures.
