Governor Abiodun Forms Ambassadors to Uplift Investment Drive

Abeokuta: By Sina ODUNTAN

Published, Thursday, February 1, 2024

OGUN STATE GOVERNOR, PRINCE DAPO ABIODUN (pictured above) has taken a significant step towards boosting investments in the state by inaugurating a 12-man committee of Ogun Invest Ambassador Network. 

The committee aims to establish a strong working relationship between the government and investors, creating an environment where businesses can thrive.

During the inauguration and orientation course for the ambassadors at the Ogun Invest Office in Isheri, Governor Abiodun emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating that it would make a substantial difference in attracting and growing investments in the state. He outlined the ambassadors' responsibilities, which include enlightening investors about the opportunities available in Ogun State and the benefits of conducting business there. The ambassadors will play a crucial role in building bridges, fostering collaboration, and attracting investors who can propel the state to new heights.

Representing the Governor, the Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, urged the ambassadors to sharpen their communication skills, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in their roles. The Governor also announced that the performance of the ambassadors would be regularly evaluated by private organizations conducting business with the state, with compensations given to those who perform exceptionally well.

The Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela, described the ambassadors as a crucial link between the government and investors. He emphasized the need for a proper regulatory framework to earn investors' trust and respect and urged the ambassadors to be diligent in making the Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency a success.

The Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, expressed his hopes that the ambassadors' selection would mark a turning point in the state's investment journey. He urged them to bring their professionalism to the table and enhance the industrial sector.

The Special Adviser on Ogun State Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency (Ogun Invest), Ms. Sola Arobieke, explained that the initiative is part of the state's efforts to attract investments and enhance the ease of doing business. The Ambassadors Network comprises individuals from different ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) who have investment-related functions. Their role is to streamline processes and provide relevant information to investors to ensure a smooth settling of investments in the state.

To emphasise the importance of service excellence in promoting investments, the Managing Director of Coleman Technical Industries Ltd., Mr. George Onafowokan, spoke about the ambassadors' responsibility to give excellent service to investors. He encouraged them to see their nomination as an opportunity to serve and as representatives of the state's frontline ambassadors.

The 12 ambassadors inaugurated include representatives from various departments and agencies such as the Bureau of Lands and Survey, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Bureau of Lands and Survey, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ogun State Property Investment Corporation, Housing Corporation, and Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

With the inauguration of the Ogun Invest Ambassador Network, Ogun State demonstrates its commitment to driving investments and creating a conducive environment for businesses to flourish. The network of ambassadors will work tirelessly to attract investors, showcase the state's potential, and foster economic growth.