The Niger State Government has refuted claims suggesting that insecurity might deter investors from investing in the state.
Suleiman Takuma, the Commissioner for Trade and Investment of Niger State, made this clarification in Minna while addressing journalists regarding the upcoming Nigeria Public-Private Partnership Network Meeting scheduled to take place in the state capital on Wednesday.
He assured potential investors that their investments are secure, noting that areas of banditry in the state are located more than six hours away from investment zones. Takuma emphasized that the state government has implemented measures to safeguard investments and ensure the safety of investors.
Despite the challenges posed by insecurity, Takuma highlighted numerous ongoing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives between the state government and investors, particularly in agriculture and infrastructure sectors.
The commissioner also detailed that the upcoming meeting, themed ‘Using PPPs in Infrastructure Delivery in the States to Ensure National Food Security and Economic Growth,’ aims to convene leaders from both the public and private sectors. Their goal is to discuss innovative strategies for leveraging PPPs to advance national objectives of food security and economic growth.
He further stated, “Collaboratively, we can ensure the provision of essential infrastructure that supports food security and stimulates economic growth, thereby enhancing quality of life.”
Additionally, the Special Adviser to the Governor on PPP, Jonathan Vatsa, and the Executive Secretary of Niger State Investment Promotion Agency, Amina Sanusi, echoed the state’s readiness to welcome investors. They emphasized the importance of collective efforts by Nigerians, especially residents of the state, in supporting government initiatives to create a safe environment conducive for investment.