…explores investment opportunities in agro-processing, healthcare, tourism, other sectors

The South African Consul General to Nigeria, Dr. Bobby Moore has commended the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for pursuing life-transforming projects and reforms that have continued to translate to improved livelihood for the people and economic prosperity for the state.

Moore, who paid a courtesy visit to the governor, in company of the Vice Consul (political), Busisiwe Dlamini, at the Government House in Benin City, also hailed the government’s far-reaching reforms and policies to improve the ease of doing business in the state.

He said, “I have not been in Edo in the last 18 months or so and coming to see how much of what has been done, I am so impressed. I have seen a lot of infrastructural development - hotels, malls, among others. Under your leadership, a lot has been done in the last few years and ours is just to step on the platforms that have already been established for us to look at how we can work together for a mutually beneficial project.”

Moore continued: “South Africa would like to renew the friendship between the government and the people of Edo state. We would like to identify areas of cooperation in the areas of commerce, trade and investment, most importantly because Edo is a state that hosts culture. South Africa is looking forward to learning more about the issues of culture, particularly from Edo State.

“We are also looking at areas of people-to-people cooperation, such as youth development. Projects that will help in creating social cohesion between the people of South Africa and Edo State.

“Potential areas of investment by the people of South Africa in Edo include infrastructure development, especially road infrastructure that facilitates the movement of people as well as goods and services for a healthy economy. Another area is hospitality and tourism. Edo's rich cultural history can play a key role that will assist in providing expertise in the tourism and hospitality industry of Edo State.”

He further noted, “Agro processing is a very integral part of any nation that needs to grow its economy. A number of people are involved in subsistence farming but because of lack of technology, infrastructure and training, most of the agricultural produce goes to waste.

“We have an alternative means to that. If there is excess production of tomatoes, garlic and ginger, we are able to bring companies with expertise to process those. Relevant companies in South Africa will come for feasibility studies and look at the areas that they can explore to start with, which will also provide job opportunities to the youth and women especially.

“We are also looking at the health sector. We have a few South African companies in Lagos that are involved in healthcare services who can also impart and exchange skills and knowledge and establish health centers in Edo State.”