The Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that empowers entrepreneurs, attracts investment, and accelerates economic transformation in Northern Ghana.
Speaking as the Special Guest at the Northern Business Fair 2026, held at Jubilee Park in Tamale on Saturday, 25 July, 2026 the Minister described the annual event, organized by Channel One TV and Citi FM, as a strategic platform that promotes entrepreneurship, innovation, investment and regional economic growth.
The event attracted Members of Parliament, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), traditional leaders, representatives of government institutions, development partners, financial institutions, members of the business community, exhibitors, investors and the media. The Regional Minister was accompanied by the Mayor of Tamale, Hon. Abubakari Adam Takoro; the Municipal Chief Executive for Sagnarigu, Hon. Abdulai Imoro Gong; and the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Hon. Prof. Seidu Alidu.
In their separate remarks, the three government officials reaffirmed the commitment of their respective offices to fully support the Northern Business Fair, describing it as a strategic platform for promoting entrepreneurship, attracting investment, stimulating economic growth and accelerating the socio-economic development of the Northern Region and Ghana as a whole.
Hon. Ali Adolf John commended the organizers for sustaining an initiative that has grown beyond an exhibition of products and services into a catalyst for business development and economic advancement. He noted that the fair enables businesses to showcase their products, attract investors, exchange ideas and establish strategic partnerships.
He stated that as Ghana continues its journey toward economic recovery and sustainable development, creating opportunities for businesses to grow, compete and access new markets remains a national priority. He added that platforms such as the Northern Business Fair complement government’s efforts by strengthening local enterprises and encouraging investment.
The Minister reaffirmed the commitment of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration to creating an enabling environment for businesses through transformative policies and programmes aimed at stimulating economic growth across the country.
He highlighted key government initiatives, including the 24-Hour Economy Policy, Export Ghana Programme, Adwumawura Programme, National Apprenticeship Programme, and the establishment of the Women’s Development Bank, describing them as opportunities that will empower entrepreneurs, support small and medium enterprises, women-owned businesses and young innovators.
According to him, these flagship interventions will enable businesses to expand their operations, create employment and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s economic transformation.
Hon. Ali Adolf John emphasized that Northern Ghana possesses enormous comparative advantages, including fertile agricultural lands, abundant natural resources, strategic trading corridors and a youthful, hardworking population, making the region an ideal destination for investment in agribusiness, manufacturing, commerce and value addition.
He stressed, however, that unlocking the region’s full economic potential requires stronger collaboration among government, the private sector, financial institutions, development partners and the media, noting that sustainable regional development can only be achieved through effective partnerships.
The Regional Minister commended exhibitors and entrepreneurs for their resilience, creativity and determination, describing them as the backbone of the local economy. He encouraged them to maximize the opportunities presented by the fair by marketing their products, building new business relationships and exploring markets beyond the region.
Addressing prospective investors, Hon. Ali Adolf John assured them of the unwavering support of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC) and the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in facilitating investments and ensuring a conducive business environment. He declared that Northern Ghana is open for business and urged investors to take advantage of the region’s vast investment opportunities.
The Minister further applauded Channel One TV and Citi FM for their continued commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and supporting local businesses through the annual Business Fair, describing the initiative as a major contribution to the socio-economic development of Northern Ghana.
He expressed optimism that the 2026 Northern Business Fair would foster stronger partnerships, expand markets, attract increased investment and create lasting business relationships that would benefit both Northern Ghana and the country as a whole. He concluded by wishing all exhibitors, investors and participants fruitful engagements, successful networking and rewarding business opportunities throughout the fair.