by By Fred Abua
The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, took center stage on the second day of the International Cooperation & Investment Summit (ICIS) held at the prestigious Calabar International Conference Centre from August 30th to 31st, 2023. In his address, Rt. Hon. Odey echoed the state’s unwavering commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment by removing obstacles hindering seamless operations for investors in Cross River State.
Drawing inspiration from the opening remarks made by the Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, on the inaugural day, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey reaffirmed the Cross River State Government’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of investments within the region. He highlighted the tangible demonstration of this commitment through the remarkable presence of high-ranking officials, including the Governor, Deputy Governor, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Secretary to the State Government, all commissioners, and all permanent secretaries, who collectively participated in the summit.
Rt. Hon. Odey stated emphatically that the government’s pledge to safeguard investor interests was unequivocal and extends beyond mere rhetoric. Hon. Odey said: “This is not a political statement. We will ensure that whatever business you bring to Cross River State will have our protection.”
The Deputy Governor further underscored the state’s determination to facilitate investor activities by providing security and land with Certificates of Occupancy for the investors. He proudly shared that Cross River State is the proprietor of 50% of Nigeria’s Carbon Credit reserves, boasting abundant forests, arable lands, valuable mineral resources, and an array of prospects spanning various sectors.
Recalling his instrumental role in the enactment of the Cross River State Enterprise (Privatization) Law during the previous administration, Rt. Hon Peter Odey said this piece of legislation led to the establishment of the Privatization Council which sealed government’s departure from direct involvement in business operations. Odey cited instances of government-owned enterprises that have thrived after privatization, such as Lafarge Africa (formerly CALCEMCO), Flour Mills, and Transcorp Hotels (formerly Metropolitan Hotel). He said these ventures which now generate substantial profits for their owners are contributing taxes to the state, and providing employment opportunities for Cross Riverians, while surpassing their performance under government management.
Distinguished speakers and luminaries from around the globe participated in the event, engaging in enlightening panel discussions, business-focused sessions, and pivotal business agreements with prospective investors on the sidelines. Notable figures present at the event included His Excellency, Cui Jianchun, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nigeria; His Excellency, Kim Young Chae, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Nigeria; Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, Country Representative of WHO; Dr. Iorwa Apera, Country Director of FHI360; Chief Diana Chen Emba, Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Investment Forum; Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group CEO of Access Holding Plc; Mr. Lamin G. Barrow, Director-General of the African Development Bank, Nigeria Country Department; Dr. O. M. O. Ashimolowo, Vice President of Operations at ECOWAS Bank for Investment & Development; and Mr. Suren Abeywickkrema, Vice President of ARISE Industrial Integrated Platforms, among several other esteemed guests.
The event was brought to a conclusion with an entertaining dinner and award night attended by the Deputy Governor, international investors, members of the State Executive Council and many other people.
