Economic crunch: Enugu seeks US assistance

Enugu State Government has asked the United States for assistance in its efforts to combat challenges posed by the current economic crunch in the country.
The State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, made the appeal when he hosted the US Consul General, Francis John Bray, who was on a courtesy visit at the Government House, Enugu.
Ugwuanyi specifically urged the US to assist Enugu in its drive to attract foreign investment.


He equally asked for help in his administration’s bid to improve the economy of the state through the development of human and natural resources.
The governor, who noted that the fall in the price of crude oil has posed a major challenge to government at all levels in the country, called for stronger economic relationship between Enugu and the US.
He said, “As part of efforts to counter this adverse situation, we are now vigorously engaged in a campaign to attract direct foreign investment to our state.
“We are indeed telling the world that Enugu State is ready for business.
“I hasten to state that we are more than prepared to exchange ideas and partner with your office at all times, on all issues of development as they relate to Enugu State.
“This relationship has become even more crucial in the light of the challenges posed by the current economic crunch in the country.”
Ugwuanyi added that his administration was ready to partner and collaborate with interested investors in various sectors of the state’s economy.
According to him, his administration has provided a conducive environment for business through adequate security, provision of infrastructure, environmental improvement, and regulation of social services and amenities.
He said investment opportunities abound in the state in areas like agriculture, solid minerals, manufacturing, oil and gas, among several others.  
An International Investment Summit is to hold in Enugu at the Michael Okpara Square in April, the governor disclosed.
The US Consul General, Bray, who led a delegation that included other officials, said they were in Enugu acquaint themselves with the culture and tradition of the people of the state.
Bray noted that a mutually beneficial relationship between the US and Enugu could transform the economic fortunes of the state.
However, he said the officials from both sides should “close ranks” in order to actualise the goal.