From Celestine Ihejirika, Jalingo
Participants at the recently concluded Town Hall Engagement Meeting between the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) and the Taraba State Government have commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his efforts in promoting investment opportunities across the state.
The stakeholders also lauded the Federal Government, through PEBEC, for its commitment to partnering with the Taraba State Government to enhance business development and attract investments.
Speaking at the event, Governor Kefas reiterated the importance of the programme and urged participants to take advantage of the opportunity to contribute to economic growth and development in the state.
Represented by the Commissioner for Rural and Urban Development, Dr. Emmanuel Lawson, the governor expressed the state government’s readiness to collaborate with investors and create an enabling environment for businesses to flourish.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to implementing policies and programmes aimed at attracting investors and supporting business reform initiatives, particularly in the areas of security, power supply and potable water.
According to him, the government is also putting measures in place to strengthen institutions, support businesses and encourage investments across key sectors of the economy.
Kefas noted that the ongoing reforms are designed to create a more efficient operating environment for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) while improving the state’s appeal to prospective investors.
In his remarks, the Director-General of PEBEC, Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, highlighted the agency’s mandate and objectives in promoting ease of doing business throughout the country.
Represented by Project Manager, Aineya Okpebholo, the PEBEC boss outlined the criteria used in selecting states for investment opportunities and business reform interventions, especially in the areas of security, power and potable water.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Danjuma Saigudu, disclosed plans by the state government to establish a one-stop investment centre to provide prospective investors with easier access to information and government services.
He explained that the centre would offer information on key sectors of the state’s economy, including agriculture, mining and energy.
Saigudu further stated that the introduction of digital tracking and feedback systems would enhance service delivery and simplify administrative procedures.
Participants at the meeting were also enlightened on the need to build a transparent and investor-friendly business environment capable of stimulating economic growth and attracting sustainable investments.
The Reform Leader of PEBEC, Solomon Ukut, delivered a presentation on Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) and its significance in strengthening policy formulation.
He explained that the RIA framework supports businesses by evaluating the impact of regulations and ensuring that government policies remain effective, efficient and evidence-based.
Ukut added that the core principles of Regulatory Impact Analysis promote accountability, strengthen governance and support sustainable economic development.
