Investment experts have identified Rivers State as Nigeria's premier business destination across multiple sectors. They cite advantages spanning air, sea, land and blue economy opportunities.
The assessment came during a Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council workshop in Port Harcourt last weekend. The gathering brought together stakeholders for the "Nationwide Subnational Engagement and Technical Reform Workshop 2026" at Hotel Presidential.
Oluwaseun Obafemi, head of high impact investment work-stream, outlined what Rivers must do to solidify this position. He stressed that strengthening the state's economy remains the primary objective.
Time management, regulatory consistency, and clear ownership of processes matter most, Obafemi noted. Each regulation requires a designated agency to oversee implementation.
Rivers should study successful models elsewhere. Kaduna's partnership with Olam and Ogun's free trade zone demonstrate what's possible, he said.
International examples like Dublin and Dubai also offer valuable lessons. Both cities built thriving economies through strategic positioning.
Local investors deserve exceptional treatment, Obafemi added. They become the most credible ambassadors to foreign counterparts.
"Where slogans and flyovers stop is where personal testimonies start," he noted. Word-of-mouth from satisfied business owners carries tremendous weight.
Rivers should pick one flagship product and build a strong brand around it. Profits from that success can then fund development of other sectors.
Positioning requires clear messaging on four fronts: location, presence, proof and personality. These elements must drive all economic communication.
Obafemi urged states to map out their entire economic corridors in detail. Investors need specific information about location, infrastructure, market access and port facilities.
Sumaiyyah Yusuf, South-South Team lead, addressed the regulatory framework in a separate session. She emphasized how government treatment of businesses shapes a state's reputation.
"Create a template for dealing with businesses," Yusuf told participants. Consistency in approach builds investor confidence.
She outlined five critical steps for policymakers. First, analyze impacts before introducing new regulations.
Second, watch for hidden cost increases that burden businesses and citizens. Third, eliminate duplicate responsibilities across agencies.
Fourth, research thoroughly before creating regulations. Fifth, avoid unintended negative consequences.
Sub-national governments should adopt structured decision-making frameworks, Yusuf recommended. Efficiency gains follow from clear, systematic processes.
