ECCIMA urges Southeast to boost economic development
The Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) wants state governments in the South East region to provide the political leadership that will open up the area for investments.
The President, Mr Emeka Nwandu, made the call in Enugu during his installation as the 15th president of the chamber.
Nwandu said that it had become necessary for the Federal Government and state governors in the area to improve on the ‘Ease of Doing Business Index’ for businesses to thrive in the zone.
The ECCIMA president said that he would work assiduously to attract Igbo sons and daughters doing businesses in other parts of the country to invest at least 10 per cent of their businesses in the South East.
“At the same time, we will continue to advocate for the Federal Government to improve on the ease of doing business in this region.
“This will include providing for liquefied gas reticulation, reducing the cost of energy, developing our seaports and inland dry ports as well as other enablers such as infrastructure and business friendly policies.
“We, therefore, appeal to the Federal Government, Southeast governors and legislators to provide the needed political willpower for developing the industrial and commercial ecosystem in the South East,” he said.
Nwandu said that the chamber, under his watch, would strive for greater relevance by increasing its visibility and viability.
He said that the chamber would attract more foreign trade missions for its members to participate and enhance their international business relationships.
He said that ECCIMA would increase the scope of the annual Enugu International Trade Fair by organising specialised fairs and exhibitions in various professional fields.
Nwandu, therefore, reiterated the call for the Federal Government to complete the development of the Enugu International Trade Fair complex as it prepares for the forthcoming 31st edition of the fair.
Earlier, the outgone president of the chamber, Mr Emeka Udeze, said that he was happy to have contributed to the success of the chamber.
Udeze said that he trusted the willingness of his successor to continue in the strategic efforts to reposition the chamber for greater relevance in the region.