Business
Soludo: Delta, Anambra should become Nigeria’s twin growth hubs
*Calls for post-summit investment partnerships
*Proposes dress code for future investment summits to drive jobs
By Babajide Komolafe, Economy Editor & Egufe Yafugborhi, Ochuko Akuopha
ASABA—Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has called for deeper economic collaboration between Delta and Anambra states, describing both as natural “twin growth hubs” capable of driving regional prosperity, while urging organisers of investment summits to focus on concrete business deals rather than speeches. He also proposed a “Made-in-Nigeria” dress code for future investment summits to stimulate local manufacturing and create millions of jobs.
Speaking at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit in Asaba, Soludo said: “With the completion of the Second Niger Bridge, Delta and Anambra have effectively become twin states, much like New York and New Jersey. We should institutionalise our relationship beyond personal friendships by creating working groups that will promote economic cooperation.”
According to him, “There are many areas where Anambra can learn from Delta, and many areas where Delta can learn from Anambra. We are building a new commercial and industrial city powered by an aerotropolis, and I see several areas where our development strategies align. We should build synergies rather than compete unnecessarily.”
The governor stressed that recent macroeconomic reforms have created a more attractive environment for investment.
He said: “From a macroeconomic standpoint, Nigeria has stabilised and is on the path of recovery. We have broken some of the paradoxes of the Nigerian economy. We were a capital-scarce economy that was simultaneously experiencing massive capital flight. Today, the exchange rate has become more stable and predictable, and inflation is beginning to moderate.”
He added: “Foreign capital is essential for Nigeria and for all the states. Whether it comes from Africa or anywhere else in the world, investors require a stable and predictable macroeconomic environment. We are making progress in that direction.”
Calling for greater focus on implementation, Soludo said: “Investment must become a habit, not just an event. What should follow today’s speeches are business networking sessions, investment deals and concrete partnerships. We need coordinated action between the Federal Government and the states to translate macroeconomic reforms into jobs, poverty reduction and better living standards for ordinary Nigerians.”
On local manufacturing, the governor urged Nigerians to patronise locally made products.
“We cannot create the number of jobs we need if we continue consuming imported products while neglecting locally made goods,” he said.
Pointing to his attire, Soludo added: “I am wearing an outfit made by a Nigerian brand. My daughter introduced me to it in 2019 and it has since become my daily uniform. The business has grown significantly, creating jobs and increasing incomes.”
He concluded with a challenge to future summit organisers: “Imagine if over 240 million Nigerians deliberately chose to wear Made-in-Nigeria clothing. Millions of jobs would be created. Perhaps at the next investment summit, we should make it a rule: if you are not wearing Made-in-Nigeria, don’t come.”
