Northern Regional Minister Appeals to Investors with Govt’s 24-Hour Economy & SME Push
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Ali Adolf John, has declared the region“open for business,” urging local and foreign investors to take advantage of the land, youth, and strategic trade routes as the government rolls out new policies to drive economic transformation.
Speaking as Special Guest at the Northern Business Fair 2026 at Jubilee Park in Tamale on Saturday, the Minister said the government is deliberately creating a business-friendly environment to empower entrepreneurs, create jobs, and accelerate growth in the north.
“This fair is more than an exhibition. It is a platform for partnerships, for innovation, and for moving Northern Ghana from potential to prosperity,” Mr Ali Adolf John stated.
The event, organised by Channel One TV and Citi FM, drew MPs, MMDCEs, traditional leaders, financial institutions, development partners, and hundreds of exhibitors.
He was joined by Tamale Mayor Mr Abubakari Adam Takoro, Sagnarigu MCE Mr Abdulai Imoro Gong, and Tamale Central MP Prof. Seidu Alidu. All pledged their assemblies’ support for enterprise development.
He said flagship policies like the 24-Hour Economy Policy, Export Ghana Programme, Adwumawura Programme, National Apprenticeship Programme and Women’s Development Bank are designed to unlock opportunities for SMEs, women, and young people.
“These interventions will enable businesses to expand, create employment, and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s economic transformation,” he said.
Mr Ali Adolf John made a direct pitch to investors, citing Northern Ghana’s “enormous comparative advantages:” fertile agricultural land, abundant natural resources, strategic trading corridors into the Sahel, and a youthful, hardworking population.
He identified agribusiness, manufacturing, commerce, and value addition as priority areas, but stressed that growth will depend on collaboration between government, private sector, banks, development partners, and the media.
“Northern Ghana is ready. The NRCC and all MMDAs are ready to facilitate your investments and ensure a conducive business environment,” he assured.
He also praised exhibitors for their “resilience and creativity,” urging them to use the fair to build networks and enter new markets beyond the region.
The organisers, Channel One TV and Citi FM, were commended for growing the fair into what the Minister called “a catalyst for business development and economic advancement” in Northern Ghana.
The 3-day fair is expected to close with new deals, partnerships, and market linkages aimed at positioning the Northern Region as a hub for investment and entrepreneurship.
Bala Ali, ISD
