The Miami Commissioner, Jean Monestime, led a 40-man delegation to Edo State on bilateral trade relations.
He said the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, as well as Lagos and Edo states would benefit from aviation, tourism, and cultural investments to build on the US and Nigeria’s existing trade relationships.
He said, “The United States and Nigeria currently trade more than $3.2 billion. I do not think that this pie is big enough for Edo State to receive its fair share of trade and Commerce with Miami Dade County.
“I have learnt a little about the rich culture that you have here. So, we look forward to you bringing your delegation to Miami.
“So, you can basically share with us your thoughts about how you desire to promote this great state – Edo, and how the exchanges may continue between Miami Dade and Edo State.
“We have amongst us, different business owners. We are not here to transact ourselves, but to transact business and tell you about the values that we have that you can take advantage of which will be beneficial to your state, Nigeria, and the United States.”
Continuing, the commissioner said, “Honourable guests, we are here (Edo) on a business development mission. We have a diverse workforce and more than 52 per cent of our workforce residents are foreign.
Responding, the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, expressed gratitude to the delegation for the trade mission and gave a brief history of how the talk between the state and Miami Dade County began towards diversifying the economy of the state.
He highlighted the huge potential of the state and the steps that the government had taken toward the reduction of unemployment.
The governor noted that his administration had built infrastructure and raised youths in line with his campaign promises to the electorate.
“We are looking inward to galvanise opportunities, exchange, and look out to our brothers in America. For us, culture is powerful. Our dream is to make Edo State the Culture Capital of Africa. Rabat in Morocco is the beginning of the journey, Ghana is the gateway and Nigeria is the destination.
