Taravest 2025: Taraba Business Owners Support Investment Summit, Warn Against Neglecting SMEs

 

As anticipation builds for the Taraba State International Investment Summit (Taravest 2025), local business owners across the state have thrown their weight behind the initiative, describing it as a step in the right direction for economic revitalization. However, they have also sounded a note of caution: small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the backbone of the state's economy, must not be left behind in the unfolding investment drive.

 

Speaking to Taraba Truth and Fact newspaper, several entrepreneurs commended the state government for organizing the summit, which is scheduled to take place on May 21 in Jalingo, the state capital. They noted that the event's timing and theme — "Unlocking Taraba's Investment Potentials: Advancing Agriculture, Energy, Mining, and Industrialisation for Sustainable Growth and Development" — align with the state's unique economic strengths.

 

Alhaji Umar Dampar, a member of the Taraba State Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted that local business operators have been invited to participate in the summit and are optimistic about its outcomes.

 

"This summit would enable businessmen and women interact with investors coming to the state," Dampar said. "It's also an opportunity to showcase how local businesses — the real drivers of our economy — can collaborate with incoming investors. The government doesn't do business, but investors will surely need local input to succeed."

 

Chairperson of the SMEs Women Forum, Mrs. Mirabel Adama Bako, stressed the importance of including SMEs in the summit's agenda. She warned that while the focus on attracting large-scale investors is commendable, the state must also develop policies and initiatives that strengthen micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

 

"Our participation will help protect the interest of SMEs. As the government opens the doors to big investors, it must also have solid plans to support existing businesses in Taraba," Bako said.

 

Business consultant Mr. Audu Ayuba emphasized the need for investors to prioritize local talent and services, particularly the youth and skilled professionals within the state.

 

"The theme of Taravest captures all we have in Taraba — natural resources, fertile land, and a vibrant population," Ayuba said. "But we must not forget our human resources. Our unemployed youths must benefit directly from the investments expected after this summit."

 

Speaking on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Information and Reorientation, Hon. Zainab Jalingo, highlighted the strategic importance of the summit. In a statement issued Tuesday, she noted that Taraba's strength in agriculture, mining, and its youthful population were key assets attracting both local and international investors.

 

"Taraba's comparative advantages in agriculture and mining, supported by a young and dynamic population, constitute a compelling proposition for both local and foreign investors," Jalingo said.

 

She added that the summit would feature sectoral analyses, discussions on investment strategies, and networking sessions with business leaders and economic experts — all aimed at positioning Taraba as the preferred investment hub in Nigeria's North-East.

 

"Taravest will offer investors deep insight into the state's macroeconomic landscape and opportunities," Jalingo said. "Our emphasis on security, ease of doing business, and infrastructure development continues to enhance investor confidence."

 

As the countdown to the summit continues, stakeholders agree that the inclusion of local businesses in the investment narrative is critical for achieving sustainable growth and ensuring that the economic benefits of Taravest 2025 reach every corner of the state.