Organizers of the Onitsha Business Hangout claim that the South-East region must embrace cooperation and shared growth to achieve economic success, moving away from isolated competition. During a media briefing, the event’s convener, Ifeanyichukwu Ogbaji, stated that the fifth annual symposium aims to unlock agricultural potential by focusing on the entire value chain.
The upcoming event, titled “Agriculture Beyond Farming: Unlocking the Value Chain in the South-East,” shifts focus toward agro-processing, logistics, packaging, and technology. Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, the founder of Masters Energy Group, is scheduled to deliver the keynote address. Other participants include Dr. Sulaiman Dikwa from Green Sahara Farms, Chidimma Ewuzie of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and Akinwale Alabi of Corporate Farmers.
Ogbaji noted that for Onitsha to maintain its standing as a major West African commercial hub, local businesses must modernize beyond traditional trading models. By connecting processors, investors, and technology experts, the organizers hope to transition small businesses into significant players within the agricultural sector. To foster this growth, a N20 million Open Pitch Grant Challenge has been launched for entrepreneurs in Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states. These grants will be awarded based on commercial potential, sustainability, and job creation capabilities.
