The General Manager of the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK), Bilikiss Adebiyi-Abiola has expressed government’s commitment to encouraging the creativity of local entrepreneurs towards producing quality products that meet international standards and best practices.

Briefing the media on the 2019 edition of the ‘Fair in the Park’ organised by LASPARK at the Ndubuisi Kanu Park, Alausa, Ikeja, the General Manager described Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, SMEs, as the conduit of residual economy which must be nurtured to serve as a strong agent of economic growth and development.

She affirmed that the three-day programme tagged ‘Exhibition and End of 1st Quarter Sales’ was tailored to combine entertainment and relaxation with business enterprises featuring exhibition of locally made fabrics, farm produce, organic supplements, home appliances among other indigenous products; the event also featured free health screening and aerobics, family picnic and cooking competition.

“This occasion symbolises the connecting platform that indigenous manufacturers need to increase their confidence towards making them more competitive as they strive to attain international recognition”, she emphasised.

Adebiyi- Abiola pointed out that promoting locally manufactured products as well as creating the needed awareness for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) remains the most viable option in the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the country because of its ability to improve the State’s GDP and curb unemployment.

“This portends government’s desire to build a network of opportunities around the sector and attract investors into the local market which would significantly boost the GDP of the State towards improving the standard of living of citizens”, she affirmed.

The General Manager described the event as a manifestation of total dedication of the Lagos State Government to the promotion of the Small and Medium Scale businesses as a catalyst for economic growth and development, noting that building the capacity of local entrepreneurs is a necessary impetus for small businesses to thrive.

While acknowledging the invaluable contributions and continuous support of the State Ministry of The Environment, others MDAs and Corporate Organisations, Adebiyi-Abiola assured citizens that the government will continue to serve as the agent of change to ensure that the Smart City agenda of the present administration comes to fruition.