Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra says his administration is committed to building a tech-driven and business-friendly environment in the state.
By Lucy Osuizigbo-Okechukwu
Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra says his administration is committed to building a tech-driven and business-friendly environment in the state.
Soludo, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim, gave the assurance on Wednesday at the maiden edition of State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) technical session and state-wide town hall held in Awka.
The event formed part of the nationwide tour by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).
PEBEC aimed at bringing federal reform champions face-to-face with state officials, private sector leaders and the business community.
He said that the state’s business reforms were deliberate and data-driven.
“Our belief here in Anambra is that if you cannot measure it you cannot improve it. Anambra currently ranks 7th nationally and leads the South East on ease of doing business.
“These reforms are ongoing, they involve measurable processes grounded in technology, planning and accountability,” he said.
Also speaking, Mrs Zahra Mustapha-Audu, Director-General, PEBEC, said the SABER programme was a $750 million World Bank-supported initiative.
Mustapha-Audu explained that the programme, which represents a transformative partnership, was co-designed to help states implement global standards and foster more transparent and business-friendly environments.
“Designing reforms matters, but real impact comes from effectively implementing them, with states as the true engines of economic growth,” she said.
Earlier, the Anambra State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, said that over 98 per cent of the state’s wealth is concentrated in the private sector.
According to her, with such development, government reforms need to be intentional and responsive.
“Under governor Soludo’s leadership, Anambra has remained intentional about ensuring businesses face fewer obstacles and enjoy a competitive edge,” she said.
During the technical session, PEBEC reform lead, Mr Gabriel Ohiemi, commended Anambra’s digital and business reforms.
“The state government’s resolve in these areas are commendable and it earned the state 7th place nationally and first in the South East in 2021 and 2023.
“We encouraged Anambra to deepen its reforms ahead of the next ranking in December 2025.
“The event will spotlight top-performing states and most improved states, alongside tailored recommendations for investors,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)