The Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO) has recently concluded its participation in the 27th World Investment Conference (WIC) held in New Delhi, India. The conference, which was themed "Empowering Investors: IPAs Pioneering Future Growth," served as a crucial platform for discussions on global investment.
ESIPO's involvement in the conference was strategically designed to tackle the economic and social hurdles that affect investment inflows, particularly in emerging economies such as Nigeria. The team from ESIPO engaged in a variety of activities throughout the event, including intensive technical sessions and strategic networking sessions, all aimed at enhancing investment opportunities in Edo State.
The primary objectives of ESIPO at the conference were to gain insights from global counterparts, comprehend the changing trends in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and improve the investment prospects for Edo State. The team took an active part in specialised technical sessions led by industry experts, delving into strategies for unlocking potential in climate-focused FDI, refining investor engagement methods, and mobilising institutional investments.
These technical sessions proved to be highly beneficial, providing insights from global development leaders and fostering discussions on bridging FDI gaps, utilising technology for investments, and promoting climate-conscious initiatives. ESIPO made significant contributions to dialogues advocating for transparent investment policies, technology-driven growth, and innovative approaches in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ESIPO's engagements at the conference also included meetings with various businesses and startups, thereby nurturing potential collaborations and exploring investment opportunities in Edo State. Key discussions with Invest India, Business France, and the General Authority for Investment and Free Zone laid the groundwork for potential collaborations and investment facilitation, ensuring a robust investment landscape.
ESIPO's participation in WAIPA’s Start-Up Capital Connects highlighted the potential of startups in Edo State, showcasing the region's attractiveness in terms of available energy, internet connectivity, and a conducive business environment to prospective investors.
Kelvin Uwaibi, the Managing Director of ESIPO, expressed his profound gratitude to the EU-UNDP partnership for their unwavering support. He emphasised Edo State's commitment to welcoming EU investors, envisioning it as the preferred cosmopolitan destination by 2030. "Edo State has made gains in establishing an ecosystem conducive for investors and digital nomads, fostering an environment for living, working, and flourishing," Uwaibi told WAIPA on the sidelines of the conference.
ESIPO's active participation and productive interactions at the 27th WIC underscored the government's commitment to attracting strategic investments, fostering economic growth, and aligning with global investment trends.
As ESIPO continues its journey, the focus remains unswerving on positioning Edo State as an investment haven and a hub for sustainable growth and development, propelled by fruitful collaborations and strategic initiatives.