Emem Julius, Calabar
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Cross River State Branch has commended Governor Bassey Otu’s administration for its deliberate policies and programmes aimed at boosting local economic initiatives and strengthening the state’s industrial base.
The commendation was made on Tuesday during a visit by the leadership of MAN in company of the Commissioner for Commerce, Hon. Abigail Duke and Ogban Usetu; Director General and Chairman of the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency at the Governor’s Office in Calabar.
The Cross River State Vice Chairman of MAN; Bishop Usen Umoh, said the state government’s focus on infrastructure development, ease of doing business, and support for Small and Medium Enterprises are already yielding positive results for manufacturers operating in the state.
He said, “We have observed with satisfaction the efforts of this administration to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. From road rehabilitation to improved security and engagement with the private sector, these initiatives are helping to reduce the cost of production and attract investments.”
Bishop Umoh also noted the governor’s acceptance of MAN’s proposal to host the Nigeria Manufacturers’ Summit in Cross River State, describing the development as an intentional efforts in supporting local industries to drive positive economic growth.
He called for deeper private sector engagement in policy formulation, inclusion of OPS in statutory boards, and engagement on tax reforms to create a more business-friendly environment that would attract foreign and local investors.
Commissioner for Commerce; Dr Abigail Duke, commended the Governor for his open-door leadership style and strategic investments in enterprise development, noting that his policies have significantly improved the state’s business environment.
She described the recent “Most MSME-Friendly Governor Award” conferred on Governor Bassey Otu as a reflection of the Governor’s sustained commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, supporting local industries and building a resilient MSME ecosystem capable of driving inclusive economic growth.
On his part, The President of Calabar Chamber of Commerce; Kelly Ayamba, commended Governor Otu for his continued efforts in improving and repositioning the state’s economy, stressing that the award recognition validates his administration’s moves to strengthen and advance the state economy.
“It is my honour to congratulate Governor Bassey Otu for a well deserved recognition. This award is an automatic validation of his administration’s efforts in building a better and stable economy in the state”, he added.
