The British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery, has undertaken a visit to Enugu State with the aim of exploring investment opportunities at the sub-regional level in Nigeria. The visit, which occurred between June 27th and 28th, involved high-level discussions with the state governor, key stakeholders in the state government, civil society, business, and traditional leaders.
During the two-day visit, the High Commissioner engaged in a productive investment meeting with Enugu State Governor Dr. Peter Mba. The discussions focused on the longstanding 20-year partnership between Enugu State and the UK’s Department for International Development, now known as the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office. The aim was to explore avenues for enhanced collaboration in attracting investment, boosting trade, and creating more economic opportunities.
In Enugu, the High Commissioner also met with Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council and Chairman of the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu. Igwe Agubuzu briefed the High Commissioner on the pivotal role played by traditional institutions in the South East as bridge builders and guardians of peace, order, security, and welfare in Enugu State.
Furthermore, High Commissioner Richard Montgomery held discussions with the President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, and other members of Ohaneze Ndigbo. They shared their insights on investment opportunities and the business environment in the South East, along with the potential of the agricultural sector to generate more opportunities for the region’s residents.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the state, the High Commissioner met with representatives of civil society organizations in Enugu. The civil society representatives provided an overview of the opportunities and challenges in the state. The High Commissioner stressed the importance of strong and open dialogue between the state and civil society in addressing these challenges.
In a bid to support indigenous businesses, High Commissioner Richard Montgomery visited the Innoson Plant in Enugu, where he was given a tour of the premises by the management team.
Reflecting on his visit, British High Commissioner Richard Montgomery expressed his admiration for the creative energy and enterprising spirit of the people of Enugu. He emphasized the UK’s full support for initiatives aimed at bringing economic prosperity to all of Nigeria, including Enugu State. The High Commissioner expressed hope for a range of collaborative efforts to boost the partnership between the UK and the state.
The visit of the British High Commissioner to Enugu State highlights the commitment to fostering economic growth, trade, and partnerships between the UK and Nigeria at the sub-regional level. It serves as an opportunity to explore the potential of Enugu State and create avenues for mutually beneficial engagements.
