Enugu Governor courts Indonesian investors at trade forum

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State extended a warm invitation to Indonesian businesses and investors, encouraging them to explore the wealth of investment opportunities and favorable business conditions in Enugu. His call came during his keynote address at the 2023 Nigerian-Indonesian Investment and Trade Forum in Jakarta.

This event, organized by the Nigerian-Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) in collaboration with the Indonesian Trade Promotion Centre, Lagos, aims to strengthen trade and investment ties between the two nations.

Governor Mbah acknowledged the growth in trade volume between Nigeria and Indonesia, reaching $4.7 billion. However, he emphasized that both countries can unlock even more potential, particularly by taking advantage of the abundant opportunities that Enugu State offers. The governor presented a range of investment prospects within the state, spanning sectors like agriculture, mineral resources, logistics, aviation, tourism, real estate, and ICT.

Enugu State’s favorable climate provides opportunities for cultivating key crops such as cassava, oil palm, cashew, and various spices. These not only support primary agricultural production but also offer prospects for industrial facilities that can add value to these products for local consumption and export.

The state is also rich in mineral deposits, with proven oil reserves and extensive natural gas reserves. Enugu boasts an array of minerals, including coal, gold, kaolin, gypsum, clay, and limestone, making it a suitable location for mining and the establishment of vital industries.

Governor Mbah assured attendees that Enugu is open for business, with a vision to boost the state’s economy from its current $4.4 billion to an ambitious $30 billion, built on robust private sector investments and strong local and international partnerships.

The Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, Usra Harahap, reaffirmed the commitment of both the Indonesian government and business community to strengthen investment and trade relations with Nigeria, benefiting both countries. In 2022, trade volume between Indonesia and Nigeria reached $4.7 billion, primarily driven by Indonesia’s imports of oil and gas. However, Mr. Harahap emphasized the untapped potential for trade and investment in other sectors, offering significant opportunities for future development and collaboration.

Credit: NAN