Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has embarked on a mission to attract investments to his state during his participation in the Annual Meeting (AAM) of the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM Bank) in Nassau, The Bahamas.
In a statement, Governor Diri highlighted the purpose of his attendance, stating, “My attendance is in line with our administration’s consistent drive in laying a solid path for Bayelsa’s development.”
During the event, Governor Diri engaged in significant meetings aimed at bolstering Bayelsa’s economic landscape.
Notable discussions included productive talks with key figures such as Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group; Dr. Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry; and Mr. Gagan Gupta, Founder/Chief Executive Officer of Dubai-based Arise IIP Group.
According to Governor Diri, these meetings yielded commitments from the firms to establish industries in Bayelsa State under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements. The focus will be on addressing the pressing issue of youth unemployment in the region.
“I left all these meetings with the assurance and willingness of these firms to establish industries in our state and partner with our government,” Governor Diri affirmed.
The governor also expressed intentions to meet with Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of AFREXIM Bank, to discuss potential partnership and funding support for Bayelsa’s Eco-Industrial Park project.
Governor Diri emphasized his administration’s track record in creating a conducive environment for investments, particularly in ensuring peace and security.
“Our administration has in the last four years worked tirelessly to engender the conducive environment of peace and security for investments. We will not relent,” he stated.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustainable development, job creation, and industrialization, underscoring the directive to his team to follow up on the discussions to ensure tangible outcomes for Bayelsa State.
As Governor Diri continues to pursue investment opportunities at the AFREXIM Bank AAM, his efforts reflect a strategic approach to harnessing partnerships and resources for the economic advancement of Bayelsa State.