Prince Ike Chioke, an Investment Expert says Anambra has become the best destination for investment in Southern Nigeria outside Lagos and Ogun states.
Chioke, the Chairman of Board, Anambra State Investment Protection and Promotion Agency (ANSIPPA) said this at a news conference in Awka on Friday.
He said Gov. Willie Obiano through ANSIPPA effectively drove the ‘aku ruo ulo’ or the think home investment philosophy of his administration by easing the start-up processes for business.
Chioke, who is the Managing Director of Afri Invest Ltd, said Lagos had the closeness to maritime transport while Ogun state was enjoying its spill over but Anambra had built internal mechanism that was encouraging.
According to him, Anambra like other Southeast states have suffered neglect, especially since 1970, and you can see that in most national policies, that is why you cannot find a federal establishment like in those states.
“But sadly, the Southeast has had governors who would want to blame Abuja for everything, not admitting that they themselves have the capacity to make things work for their people.
“In Anambra, Obiano came prepared, he understands the state has no money but the people have capacity; that is why he strengthened security, built infrastructure and assets like the airport and international conference centre.
“The effect is that there are more investments in businesses, more hotels and general prosperity,” he said.
Chioke said he espoused the secrets of leadership qualities in his recently published book entitled “Akpokuedike: Duty Call In Anambra” and recommended it for those preparing themselves for future leadership tasks.
He said Nigerians should begin to attach special attention to the leadership recruitment process to ensure that only visionary people were voted to manage public affairs.
He said background checks should be carried out as in the manner where a man was searching for a woman he would live with all his life.
“Selecting our political leaders needs more seriousness, in Igbo society, when somebody wants to marry, his people will go and ask questions to make sure the woman in question has a good background; that is how we should choose our leaders.
“One of the best legacies of Obiano is ensuring that Prof. Chukwuma Soludo emerged his successor, only a courageous leader will say he wants somebody who would do better than him to succeed him,” he said.
Chioke commended the Anambra Vision 2070 Document, a 50-year Development Plan which was articulated by Soludo led Committee, saying it would provide a perfect guide for policy formulators and engender sustainable economic progress.
