The Rivers State Government says it has always projected an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike stated this while declaring open the 15th edition of the Port Harcourt International Trade Fair at the Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt on Monday, 9thDecember, 2019.
Represented by his Deputy Dr. Mrs. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Governor Wike said no Government can grow its economy without providing the enabling environment for the private sector to contribute positively to boost that economy.
“That is why as a Government it is very important to us to encourage the private sector in any way possible and we are happy that here in Rivers State we have one of the foremost Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria and I know a lot more can be done between the Chamber and the Government”. The Governor quipped.
The State Chief Executive who disclosed that a robust relationship exists between the State Government and PHACCIMA assured that they would have a Certificate of Occupancy for the land the State Government allocated to the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce but however warned that they must commence the development of the land within the next six months or stand the risk of losing it.
“I believe that they will be able to develop the land within 6 months, so that next year the 16th edition of the International Trade Fair will be hosted in their land “. He further stressed.
Governor Wike who expressed his desire for the Trans Amadi Industrial Layout to be vibrant again said we need these businesses in Port Harcourt and we need all our ports to be effective.
“we have said it over and over again that the congestion taking place in Apapa will not take place if the Eastern Ports are running efficiently it will take off a lot of burden and ease the provision of goods and services across the nation so we will continue to appeal to the authorities to make sure our Ports in the Southern Area are working the way it should”.
In his address the president of the Port Harcourt chamber of commerce industry mines and agriculture Chief Nabil Saleh, said the theme of this year edition “innovation products and services for today’s commence “speaks to the current needs of business owners in today’s economy.
According to him the economies of nations are becoming increasingly interconnected and the demand to conform to global governance system has become inevitable.
Owupele Benebo
Head of Press Unit,
Deputy Governor’s Office, Port Harcourt.
Monday, December 9th 2019.
