C'River Dep. Governor Echos Govt's Commitment To Thriving Private Investments
By Hannah ARIKPO
Investors to the International Cooperation & Investment Summit (ICIS) held at the prestigious Calabar International Conference Centre in the state have been assured of the state's unwavering commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment by removing obstacles hindering seamless operations for investment in Cross River.
The State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey who gave the assurance in his opening remarks at the second day of the summit reaffirmed, the State Government's dedication to ensuring the safety and security of investments within the region.
He highlighted the tangible demonstration of this commitment through the remarkable presence of high-ranking government officials, including the Governor, Bassey Otu Deputy Governor, Hon Peter Odey, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt hon Elvert Ayambem, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, members of the state executive council, Permanent Secretaries.
Rt. Hon. Odey stated emphatically that the government's pledge to safeguard investors interests was unequivocal and extends beyond mere rhetorics.
“This is not a political statement. We will ensure that whatever business you bring to Cross River State will have our protection", he stated.
Odey, further underscored the state's determination to facilitate investment activities by providing security as well as land with Certificates of Occupancy and disclosed that the State is the proprietor of 50% of Nigeria's Carbon Credit reserves, abundant forests, arable lands, valuable mineral resources, and an array of prospects spanning various sectors.
The Deputy Governor who recalled his instrumental role in the enactment of the Cross River State Enterprise (Privatization) Law during the previous administration, acknowledged that, the legislation led to the establishment of the Privatization Council which sealed government's departure from direct involvement in business operations.
Odey, cited instances of government-owned enterprises that have thrived after privatization, such as Lafarge Africa (formerly CALCEMCO), Flour Mills, and Transcorp Hotels (formerly Metropolitan Hotel) adding that these ventures which now generate substantial profits for their owners are contributing taxes to the state, and providing employment opportunities for Cross Riverians, while surpassing their performance under government management.
Distinguished speakers and luminaries from around the globe participated in the event, engaging in enlightening panel discussions, business-focused sessions, and pivotal business agreements with prospective investors on the sidelines.
Notable figures present at the event included His Excellency, Cui Jianchun, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nigeria; His Excellency, Kim Young Chae, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Nigeria; Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, Country Representative of WHO; Dr. Iorwa Apera, Country Director of FHI 360; Chief Diana Chen Emba, Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Investment Forum; Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group CEO of Access Holding Plc; Mr. Lamin G. Barrow, Director-General of the African Development Bank, Nigeria Country Department; Dr. O. M. O. Ashimolowo, Vice President of Operations at ECOWAS Bank for Investment & Development; and Mr. Suren Abeywickkrema, Vice President of ARISE Industrial Integrated Platforms, among several other esteemed guests.
