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In a step towards deepening economic reforms at the state level, the Federal Government, through the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) has convened a town hall meeting with business leaders and stakeholders in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria to assess and accelerate business enabling reforms across the sub-national landscape.
Through its sub-national stream, PEBEC works closely with state governments to improve the business environment. This is done by setting up and supporting the State Ease of Doing Business Council and the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER). These efforts help provide clear reform plans and offer technical support tailored to each state’s needs.
The Director-General of PEBEC, Zaharh Mustapha Audu, explained that the nationwide subnational tour across the 36 states and FCT was aimed at strengthening state-level ownership of reform initiatives and deepening the implementation of (Action on Business Enabling Reforms) SABER.
Accroding to her, they chose to be present in Plateau because they believe in the commitment of the state government especially the Governor.
“The National Tour is a central pillar of the state Action for businesses Enabling Reform programmes. A transformative initiative co designed with the world bank as well as other partners including Nigeria Governors forum, Ministry of Finance, to support and intensify state level reforms and ensure they meet the specific need of each State,” she said.
Audu added that the idea behind PEBEC was to remove bureaucratic bottle necks in doing business across Nigeria and charged private sectors to hold PEBEC accountable.
“We want you to work with us as partners to help try create better business climate in Plateau State. Ask PEBEC at the National level what we are doing to make business climate more friendly, to create an ease of doing business across Nigeria,we are here to look at what the Federal and state governments can do to help the businesses thrive. what saber does is to translate some of the policies from the Federal level to the sub national levlel ensuring that reforms are tailored to meet the specific needs of each state,” she added.
The World Bank representative expressed excitement that PEBEC has prioritised the role of the private sector in its programs. This, she noted, is central to promoting economic growth and development.
Speaking on behalf of the State Government was the Secretary to the Government of the State, Samuel Jatau who emphasised that the ease of doing business has become a top priority for the state government. He noted that the state has made significant progress in implementing actionable reforms, which has helped to attract investors and promote economic growth and expressed gratitude to Plateau citizens for their rayers, support, and encouragement.
“Let me Reiterate government’s readiness to receive counsel and constructive advice that will enhance the state’s development” he added.
Voice of Nigeria reports that the visiting PEBEC delegation conducted a two-part interactive session with stakeholders across Plateau State. The engagements reviewed the state’s progress in implementing business-friendly reforms, fostered inclusive dialogue among key players, and reinforced the collective commitment of government, private sector actors, and development partners to building a more conducive and competitive business environment.
Hauwa Abu