26th November, 2015
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, on Wednesday stepped up his government’s campaign for direct foreign investment in Lagos, by seizing the opportunity at the just concluded Commonwealth Business Forum in Malta, to invite investors to take advantage of the investment opportunities that abound in the state.
The Commonwealth Business Forum in Malta, which held from Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 November, attracted over 1,200 business leaders from 80 countries.
Lagos was the toast of many investors as the Special Session hosted by the State Government had prospective investors from several countries in attendance.
Governor Ambode, who was accompanied to the forum by a strong contingent consisting Commissioners and a Special Advisers from the State Executive Council, informed investors about various investment opportunities in Lagos State.
“The strong team I have here with me is a statement of our commitment to facilitating business in Lagos for investors. With the establishment of the Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment, the government will eliminate whatever bottle-necks that may want to frustrate investors. This Office is a one-stop shop that will handle all your needs and ensure that there are no obstacles hindering investors who come to our state,” the Governor said.
Rt. Hon. Mark Simmonds of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, who anchored the Lagos State-sponsored session, said he was very impressed with the interest shown in Lagos. He said that this was a strong indication that Lagos is not just an investment destination but an emerging economic hub.
There were strong representations from the Kingdom of Nepal, Kuwait, Malaysia and Malta.
Lord Jonathan Marland, Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, particularly commended the Lagos team for its role and contribution to the forum.
Earlier, Governor Ambode who delivered a keynote address at the Plenary Session of the Forum titled, “The Commonwealth, the EU, and the Global Economic Cooperation: A One Way Ticket”, charged all nations on the need for global economic cooperation, stating that “whether you are in the EU, in the Commonwealth or whatever other organization out there, the only true commonwealth we all have is to ensure a healthy financial and economic global order through economic cooperation.”
The Governor also fielded questions as part of a panel to discuss cooperation and other economic challenges within the Commonwealth.
Those in the Governor’s entourage include the Special Adviser, Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment, Professor Ademola Abass; Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Dayo Mobereola; Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engineer Ganiyu Johnson, among others.