Enugu State’s Ambitious Economic Transformation: Inauguration of the Ease-of-Doing-Business Council
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has embarked on a mission to transform the state’s economy from its current $4.4 billion valuation to a staggering $30 billion. A key element of this ambitious plan is to establish Enugu State as a prime destination for business, investment, tourism, and high-quality living. To achieve this, Governor Mbah inaugurated the Enugu State Ease-of-Doing-Business Council, a 25-member body tasked with streamlining business operations and attracting investment. The council’s formation reflects the administration’s recognition that a business-friendly environment is crucial for economic growth.
Governor Mbah, who chairs the council, underscored the importance of attracting private investment to fuel the state’s economic expansion. He emphasized that investors prioritize returns and are drawn to locations that offer a favorable business climate. The governor highlighted Executive Order 005, which focuses on ease of doing business, as a demonstration of his commitment to this goal. He stressed the council’s alignment with the administration’s objective of fostering a thriving business ecosystem.
The governor outlined several strategic initiatives already implemented to improve the ease of doing business in Enugu State. These include the establishment of the Enugu State Geographic Information Systems (ENGIS) to facilitate access to land, the creation of a one-stop shop for processing permits, investments in state-of-the-art security infrastructure, and the development of robust transportation, digital infrastructure, and a skilled workforce. These measures aim to create an environment conducive to business growth and attract investors.
Representatives from the business community expressed their enthusiasm for the council’s establishment and the governor’s vision. Dr. Eric Chime, representing the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, described the council as a significant stride forward for Enugu State under Governor Mbah’s leadership. He highlighted the governor’s efforts to enhance security, technology, and infrastructure, emphasizing that these factors would be instrumental in attracting investment. He portrayed Enugu as a safe and promising investment destination.
Barr. Sam Otobueze, President of the Nsukka Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, commended Governor Mbah for aligning Enugu State with global standards to attract business. He recognized the changing nature of the global economy and emphasized the importance of attracting businesses and investments to position Enugu State favorably on the world map. He expressed optimism that the council’s initiatives would boost the state’s economic prospects.
The inauguration of the Ease-of-Doing-Business Council represents a crucial step in Governor Mbah’s ambitious plan to transform Enugu State’s economy. By prioritizing a business-friendly environment, enhancing security, and investing in critical infrastructure, the administration aims to attract substantial private investment and position Enugu State as a leading hub for business, investment, tourism, and quality living. The enthusiastic support from the business community underscores the council’s potential to drive economic growth and elevate Enugu State’s profile on the global stage.
