Akwa Ibom State government said processes of reviewing the regulatory framework for ease of doing bussiness in the state has begun.
The Honourable Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Capt. Iniobong Ekong (retd) who disclosed this in his maiden press conference in Uyo on Wednesday said the review was necessary to make it easier for investors to do businesses and provide an enabling environment for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive in the state.
The theme of the conference is: “Unlocking Opportunities: The Role of Trade and Investment in the Arise Agenda”
Ekong added that the ministry is working with relevant agencies to scale up access to finance, training as well as market opportunities for MSMEs across all local government areas in the state and urged the people to key into the opportunities provided by government.
“Our aim is to promote Akwa Ibom as a top investment destination in Nigeria and beyond. We are reviewing regulatory frameworks and processes to make it easier for investors to do business in Akwa Ibom.
“A comprehensive investment roadmap will be unveiled soon, highlighting opportunities in agriculture, tourism, aviation, power, tourism, maritime, manufacturing, and ICT,” he said.
The Commissioner also said in line with the Governor’s focus on rural development, he would encourage the establishment of small-scale industries and agro-processing hubs in key zones as well as trade facilitation and export growth and called for productive partnerships with the private sector and development institutions.
He said, “We will work to unlock access to regional and international markets for Akwa Ibom products, especially non-oil exports, trade fairs, promotions and exhibitions. Investment desks in our liaison offices in Abuja & Lagos.”
The Commissioner called on the media to partner with the ministry in highlighting the Arise agenda of governor Umo Eno’s administration and making the State a hub for investment, innovation, and inclusive growth.
Akwa Ibom govt reviews regulatory framework for ease of doing business
