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| An aerial view of a major round about in Calabar |
Ukorebi Esien | 18th November 2023
The Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Abigail Duke, declared that Cross River State has transitioned from a Civil Service-oriented state to one focused on fostering business and entrepreneurship. Speaking at the 2023 Global Entrepreneurship Week in Calabar, organized by the Cross River State Micro Finance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) in collaboration with the Calabar Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, Duke emphasized the need for a shift from traditional employment to a business-driven economy.
Duke, opening the event, emphasized that paid employment alone does not create wealth or develop the economy. As the Commissioner for Commerce, she stated her commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, encouraging the younger generation to venture into entrepreneurship.
In discussions with the media, Duke revealed ongoing talks with various government bodies and Civil Society Organizations, including the Tax Justice Network, to develop an ideal government taxation system. The aim is to attract investors to the state while mitigating multiple taxation issues from different agencies and government tiers.
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| Mrs. Abigail Duke, Commissioner for Commerce |
Representing the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Barr. Ijom Ukam, the Commissioner for Youth Development, conveyed a message of hope to entrepreneurs in the state. He acknowledged the challenges of starting a business and encouraged entrepreneurs to focus on solving problems, citing it as the foundation of successful ventures.
Dr. Bong Duke, in a goodwill message, urged relevant government agencies to revive the entrepreneurial spirit in the state. Despite acknowledging the high failure rate of startups, he stressed the importance of sustaining and ensuring the viability of every startup business in Cross River.
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| Bar Ijom Ukam representing Cross River State Deputy Governor at the event |
Closing the event, Mr. Luis Ibok, the Director General of Cross River State MEDA, encouraged participants to revitalize their businesses for future success. The event aimed to inspire both existing and aspiring entrepreneurs through keynote addresses, lectures, panel discussions, interactive sessions, and the participation of heads of sister MDAs, captains of industries, and startups.
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