Cross River state has launched an e-commerce platform called “Your Market Friend”.
The online based platform provides an environment where groceries and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can be ordered.
The Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs Rosemary Archibong, while unveiling the platform, said that the innovation became necessary following the challenge which the world was presently facing due to COVID-19.
According to Archibong, the initiative would give residents of Cross River the opportunity to order for commodities online with timely delivery, thereby avoiding the health risks inherent in the usually busy and crowded markets in the state.
”In a bid to foster adaptability to the ‘new normal’ as occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic, the State Ministry of Commerce has launched ‘Your Market Friend,’ an e-Commerce platform.
“This innovation was made possible through the instrumentality of Gov. Ben Ayade, who, at the creation of the Ministry of Commerce in 2019, also created the Department of e-commerce.
“We are collaborating with a lot of stakeholders, notably, the Market Traders Association of Nigeria, to make ‘Your Market Friend’ a one-stop shop for quality goods and optimal service delivery.”
“Your Market Friend’’ would commence operation with the delivery of high quality foodstuffs, face shields, masks and other personal protective items produced by the state’s garment factory.
“We hope to grow the brand into a more robust merchandise for the sales of sundry goods and services.
The Chairman of the occasion, Mr Gabriel Umoden, expressed happiness at the initiative, adding that he was ready to partner with the Ministry of Commerce in propelling such a laudable project to greater heights.
He called on other well meaning individuals and corporate organisations to complement the state government’s effort by investing in agriculture, a sector he maintained, was capable of sustaining the state’s economy.
Speaking at the launch, Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Mrs Stella Odey, lauded the efforts of the Ministry of Commerce, adding that such novel innovation would help people with busy schedules to shop easily for their needs.
“I am going to be one of your biggest customers and front line marketer but I urge you to emphasise more on local producers to enhance effective service delivery and customer satisfaction,” she said.
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