The Nigerian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a more stable, transparent and competitive business environment aimed at attracting and retaining foreign investment in Nigeria.
This assurance was given during the Third Existing Foreign Direct Investors (FDI) Roundtable convened by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The high-level meeting brought together senior government officials and foreign investors currently operating in Nigeria to engage in frank discussions on improving the country’s business climate and resolving challenges affecting investment operations.
Representing the Vice President and Chairman of PEBEC, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, said “the Federal Government remains committed to implementing reforms that will support investment expansion and long-term economic growth”.
He noted that strengthening investor confidence remains a priority of the administration as Nigeria continues to position itself as a competitive investment destination in Africa.
The Director-General of PEBEC, Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, emphasized the council’s commitment to maintaining continuous dialogue with investors already operating in the country.
According to her, “existing foreign investors play a critical role in Nigeria’s economic development through job creation, capital investment, technology transfer and supply chain development”.
EBEC’s engagement strategy focuses on listening to investors’ concerns and addressing operational challenges through coordinated government reforms.
Enhancing Confidence in Nigeria’s Economic Growth
The roundtable featured presentations and interactive discussions with key officials responsible for regulatory and policy frameworks affecting investors.
They included the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the Inspector-General of the Nigeria Police Force, Olutunji Rilwan Disu.
Also participating virtually was the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, who provided insights into ongoing fiscal and tax reform initiatives aimed at improving tax certainty, strengthening revenue administration and boosting Nigeria’s investment competitiveness.
Representatives from diplomatic missions including those of the United States, Russia, France, Colombia, Denmark and Pakistan also attended the meeting, alongside development partners such as the United Nations and the World Bank.
During the discussions, investors raised concerns and technical questions on issues including security, tax administration, customs procedures and fiscal policy reforms.
Participants commended the Federal Government for providing an open platform for dialogue and called for sustained engagement between the public and private sectors.
The roundtable underscored the importance of continuous collaboration in driving reforms that enhance investor confidence and support Nigeria’s economic growth.