Editor
……..Expo’s Vital Role in Enhancing the Nation’s Economy and Job Creation
By Fatima Saka
In anticipation of revitalizing the furniture industries in Nigeria, the Founding Father of the Abuja Interior and Furniture Expo, His Excellency Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, who also the Chairman of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), has called upon Nigerians to wholeheartedly embrace this initiative.
Hon. Masari emphasized the crucial role of the Expo in bolstering the nation’s economy and fostering job creation.
The chairman TETFUND made this called during the Media Launch of the Abuja Interior and Furniture Expo, while unveiling the Expo’s Logo, on Thursday in Abuja.
Hon. Masari underscored the significance of garnering support from relevant government bodies and the private sector to transform this platform into a driving force for the advancement of Nigeria’s interior and furniture industries.
Highlighting the challenges posed by Nigeria’s population growth, he further stressed the importance of embracing Expo initiatives like AIFE to promote skills development, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Expressing his delight at being present for the momentous occasion of the formal unveiling of the Abuja Interior and Furniture Expo (AIFE) logo, Hon. Masari commended the initiative, which originated on a modest scale during his tenure as governor of Katsina State.
Acknowledging the immense potential of this project to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and create employment opportunities for the youth, he extended his support to see it evolve into an annual national event. “Today, I take pride in witnessing this vision manifest in a grander manner.
“AIFE represents more than just an exhibition; it serves as a convergence of creativity, innovation, and excellence. Through this platform, Nigeria will showcase the finest talents in the interior and furniture design industries, highlighting the nation’s capacity for world-class craftsmanship.
“Local designers, artisans, and manufacturers possess unique skills and ingenuity deserving of global recognition. The Expo provides them with the opportunity to exhibit their work, attract investments, and forge new business prospects.”
Hon. Masari commended the relentless efforts of the AIFE organizers in realizing this vision, despite numerous challenges.
He expressed confidence that the Expo will inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, designers, and artisans to strive for excellence in their craft.
He extended his deepest gratitude to the exhibitors, sponsors, and partners for their unwavering support, emphasizing their commitment to the industry and belief in its growth potential and collaborative opportunities. “Together, we are laying the groundwork for a more vibrant, innovative, and competitive Nigerian furniture sector.”
As they progress, he urged everyone to foster an environment conducive to innovation, creativity, and excellence. Emphasizing the collective nature of this endeavor, he expressed certainty that AIFE will become a landmark event on Nigeria’s economic calendar for years to come.
With great honor, Hon. Masari officially unveiled the logo of the Abuja Interior and Furniture Expo.
In his keynote address, Alh Abbas Hassan, Director of AIFE, highlighted the era of Nigeria’s interior design and furniture industry, noting the increasing demand for quality spaces, furniture, and design services due to the country’s growing economy, urbanization, and burgeoning middle class.
In addressing the current landscape of Nigeria’s furniture industry, the Expo identified significant growth factors such as urbanization, infrastructure development, rising demand for luxury products, focus on sustainability, and the emerging middle class with disposable income,” Alh Abbas underscores.
He further highlighted persistent challenges facing the industry, which include limited access to financing, inadequate skills development, import reliance, lack of local manufacturing capacity, and absence of a robust regulatory framework.
To unlock the industry’s full potential, Alh Abbas underscored the Expo’s commitment to enhancing local manufacturing capacity through public-private partnerships, investing in skills development, promoting Nigerian design globally, establishing quality standards, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Speaking on behalf of Vento Furniture, Hasan Yigit, the Chief Executive Officer, expressed excitement about collaborating with the Expo, emphasizing the transformative impact this partnership will have on Nigerians.
He highlighted their dedication to delivering products that blend style, comfort, technology, and functionality, playing a pivotal role in bringing visionary interiors to life. “Events like AIFE are crucial for connecting creative minds, nurturing industry leaders, and inspiring the future of design.”
Discussing the Expo’s expectations, Arc. Faisal Ja’afar, the project coordinator, emphasized that the Abuja Interior and Furniture Expo is setting a standard that showcases Nigerian-made furniture on par with international products.
“The platform aims to exhibit Nigerian furniture that competes with global standards, fostering pride in the nation’s manufacturing capabilities and talented artisans”, he added.
Also, Dr. Kabir Mustapha delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the Expo’s mandate.
