The Kwara State Government has reiterated its commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment to support the business community and expand the local economy.

The assurance was given on Friday in Ilorin by the Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf-Adelodun, during the opening of the third edition of the Pre-Ramadan Trade Affair organised by the Muslimah Entrepreneurs Business Forum.

The Commissioner described the fair as timely and commended the organisers for their spirit of brotherhood and contribution to the state's economy.

She expressed delight that over 90 per cent of the exhibited goods were locally produced, describing it as clear evidence of the positive impact of the administration's policies on entrepreneurship and local content development.

"The state government under Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has always supported businesses within the state to thrive, apart from putting in place necessary infrastructure that support trade fairs such as this," she said while declaring the fair open.

"This trade fair is coming at a very good time, especially now that the Ramadan period is fast approaching. So, this will allow many households to buy their goods in one place. This is a highly targeted place and we value trade fairs such as this that are sensitive to the welfare needs of Kwarans."

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr Hauwa Nuru, praised the forum for taking full advantage of the state's business-friendly environment, adding that the initiative would further bolster the local economy.

Convener of the event, Fatima Saliu (Baytu-Tejmeel), disclosed that over 50 vendors are participating in the three-day fair, offering quality products at subsidised prices.

"The aim of organising this massive trade fair is to make it easier for people to buy commodities of their choice at cheaper prices. We understand that when Ramadan is approaching, most business owners hike prices," she said.

"We started this three years ago, with the resolve to make things easy for people, by reducing the prices of food stuff and other materials. We gather here today with many vendors with the intention of giving premium quality for a lesser price."

The trade fair is scheduled to close on Sunday.