Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, engaged in a competition to attract both Nigerian and international investors during the "International Business Conference and Expo 2023 Invest Nigeria," held in Lagos. Organized by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the conference showcased investment opportunities.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that Lagos is the prime investment destination, promoting a conducive environment for innovation, productivity, and growth. He underscored the state's commitment to implementing business-friendly policies, offering incentives, and streamlining regulatory processes. Sanwo-Olu's speech highlighted the THEMES+agenda, encompassing various sectors and ensuring social inclusion, gender equality, and youth development.
Governor Mbah of Enugu State enticed investors with the promise of improved ease of doing business, including granting a Certificate of Occupancy within 72 hours. He identified numerous investment prospects in the state, spanning tourism, real estate, untapped mineral resources, ICT, logistics, aviation, and agriculture. The governor announced an "Investors Roundtable" on September 1, 2023, unveiling a $2.1 billion project pipeline to local and international investors.
Mbah emphasized Enugu's openness for business, addressing areas like land title processes and building approvals to enhance efficiency. He highlighted plans to automate government processes for transparency and convenience. The governor also spotlighted investment opportunities in agriculture, agro-industry, logistics, aviation, and tourism. Enugu's position as a gateway to the north makes it attractive for agro-processing investments.
The conference was attended by ambassadors from various countries, and LCCI's President, Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, highlighted the event's significance in discussing the Nigerian economy and identifying investment avenues. The competition between the Lagos and Enugu governors underscored the effort to draw investors into their respective states, showcasing the growing potential of Nigeria's economic landscape.
