Following the recent report that is circulating on the Ease of Doing Business Subnational Survey carried out by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), which ranked Enugu State the lowest, the state government has decisively denied the claim and labelled it untrue and misleading. Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, the Managing Director of the Enugu State Investment Development Authority and the designated representative for Ease of Doing Business released a statement asserting that the report lacked foundation.
Ogbu-Nwobodo, a member of the PEBEC-NEC Ease of Doing Business Technical Working Group (TWG) for Southeast Nigeria, noted that the most recent official survey was published in March 2023, prior to Dr. Peter Mbah taking office as governor on May 29, 2023, while the first was published in 2021. He criticised the report as merely false information stemming from resentful political rivals, rejecting the allegations as driven by political motives. He emphasised that the alleged ranking was not trustworthy, given that the previous Subnational Baseline Survey was published in 2023, and the upcoming survey is scheduled for 2025.
Many inaccuracies are in the fake report that is circulating.
He also criticised the report for inaccurately portraying the metrics utilised in the survey. He pointed out that the official survey assesses six essential metrics, whereas the inaccurate report referred to ten, incorporating irrelevant economic and social elements. He stated that the official metrics include infrastructure, security, transparency, regulatory conditions, workforce skills, and economic prospects, underscoring that the deceptive report added fabricated criteria. He noted that Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has made notable advancements in enhancing the business environment within the state.
Also, he remarked that both domestic and foreign investors, along with diplomats, have recognised this development. He pointed to the state’s achievement of bringing in more than N300 billion in investments within a mere three months, clearly demonstrating the rising trust of Investors in Mbah’s governance. Since assuming his role, Governor Mbah has launched extensive reforms to revitalise the business landscape in Enugu. He established a systematic framework for enhancing the business climate, preparing the way for the state’s economic development.
Several Executive Orders have been enacted for economic improvement.
The governor’s ambitious goal to increase the state’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion in eight years demonstrates the administration’s commitment to economic change. Upon assuming office, Mbah swiftly enacted Executive Order 003, aimed at fostering Economic Development and enhancing governmental efficiency. Shortly thereafter, Executive Order 005 was introduced, emphasising the simplification of business operations and the attraction of investments in the region. As noted by Ogbu-Nwobodo, these initiatives are among the most impactful measures implemented to support business in Enugu.
Crucial reform sectors encompass enhancing safety, upgrading facilities, and fostering urban development. The government has additionally prioritised electronic governance, diversifying the Economy and rejuvenating stagnant state-run businesses. These efforts have led to a more effective administration and heightened transparency and accountability in delivering services. Reacting to accusations from political rivals concerning excessive taxation, Ogbu-Nwobodo refuted these claims, clarifying that the government had not hiked taxes but had rather broadened the Tax base to target those who were avoiding it before.
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Furthermore, the implementation of electronic payment systems has aided in reducing Revenue losses, making Tax Collection clearer and more effective. The government of Enugu State is dedicated to creating an environment where businesses can prosper. With ongoing initiatives and reforms aimed at drawing in investments, Enugu is establishing itself as an emerging economic centre in Nigeria. The state’s authorities are confident that these actions will not only enhance business success but also elevate the living standards of its residents.