European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria and Economic Community of West African State (ECOWAS), Her Excellency, Mrs. Samuela Isopi has declared that EU private sector investors are making significant contributions to the Nigerian economy.
The Ambassador made this declaration at the Eurocham yearly stakeholder conference with the theme ‘Sustainable Business Growth 2024’ in Lagos.
She noted that the contribution of the EU private sector plays a critical role in sustainable business practices for Nigeria’s development.
The conference held at the Alliance Francais in Mike Adenuga Centre, Ikoyi, Lagos, brought together an impressive representation of key stakeholders, industry leaders and government officials.
The conference is aimed at fostering an engaging dialogue on sustainable practices and strategies for navigating challenges in the current economic landscape.
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu in his speech reiterated his government’s commitment to design and implement policies to promote ease of doing business and provide a conducive environment for business to thrive and to become an attractive destination for investment in Africa.
Represented by the Honourable Commissioner of Cooperatives, Commerce, Trade, and Investment (MCCTI), Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the governor noted that Lagos is home to the majority of the European companies in Nigeria contributing to the economic prosperity of the State.
Keynote speakers; CEO of Nairametrics, Mr. Ugo Chukwu Obi-Chukwu provided expert analysis on economic trends and strategies for sustainable business growth, while the Chairman of Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair discussed the importance of tax compliance, plans for businesses in the region and its role in sustainable development
The panel session, titled “Sustainable Business Growth in a Challenging Macro Economic Environment,” featured six distinguished panelists, including Ambrose-Medebem, CEO Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Mrs. Aisha Rimi; Managing Director of Arla Foods, Mr. Peder Pedersen; Executive Commissioner of Securities and Exchange Commission, Mr. Temidayo Obisan; and CEO/Director General of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr. Charles Odii, and was moderated by Director Legal, Public Affairs & General Secretary Fan Milk (Danone), Olakunle Olusanya.
Eurocham President, Mr. Yann Gilbert stated that he was very pleased at the robust outcome of stakeholders committed to advancing sustainable business practices in Nigeria.
“Eurocham Nigeria, although just five years plus, is fast growing in membership and engagement in public/ private dialogue. We remain steadfast in our mission to promote responsible and inclusive economic growth and we are grateful for the invaluable contributions of our esteemed speakers and participants,” Gilbert said.
Participants at the conference includes; CEOs of the Eurocham Nigeria Member Companies, the European diplomatic missions; the EU Delegation to Nigeria, Embassies and Consulates of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, France, Portugal among others as well as bilateral Chamber representatives, key industry experts and stakeholders. They gained valuable insights into promoting responsible business growth and enhancing collaboration between European and Nigerian enterprises.
