By Our Correspondent
Former Nigerian president and -patron of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)-Nigeria Business Council Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that the impressive report of the Council barely two years of its formation, would propel him to stay with the body.
The President of the DRC, Felix Tshisekedi is a co-patron of the council, which was formed to cultivate a conducive environment for investment and collaboration between the two countries.
Obasanjo at the stakeholders meeting of the Council in Lagos at the weekend, asserted that the reports from the sectors were fascinating and encouraging, with rooms to do more.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo said: “With the progress I have got this evening, I am not going anywhere. But like we said, we are making progress, but, there is still room for more progress,” he stated.
The President of the Council, Dr. Nteranya Sanginga had hinted that with the efforts of the body so far, “the African capital is on the rise as the Council is already a success. Africa will surely stand if we can work together," Sanginga said.
The Vice-Prime Minister of the DRC, Daniel Mukoko Samba President in his goodwill message from President Tshisekedi said that, “the President has a direct interest in the drive for a favourable investment climate from investors among the two great countries”.
On the reflection of the progress made by the Council, the Secretary, Amb. Robert 'Leke Adebiyi highlighted several notable achievements that demonstrate the progress made. “Firstly, the Council has successfully identified key investors who have subsequently joined our ranks, enriching our diversity and expertise. The expansion of membership signifies the growing interest and confidence in the opportunities that the DRC offers.
“Subsequent to our membership growth, we convened fruitful meetings in both Kinshasa and Lagos, focusing on thematic areas ripe for investment. These include oil and gas, energy, mining, agriculture, urban development, and transportation—sectors that hold the potential to drive significant economic growth and development in our nations.
“Additionally, our decision to establish an office in GRA Ikeja, Lagos, symbolizes our commitment to ensuring effective communication and collaboration among our members. This strategic location will serve as a hub for meetings and facilitate the sharing of vital information and resources to propel our initiatives forward.
“One of the major highlights has been the commitment of one of our esteemed members, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, to invest in the DRC, specifically in mining and agriculture. His willingness to explore these avenues is not only a testament to the potential that the DRC holds but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for other members to follow suit. Moreover, members from other sectors, predominantly oil and gas, mining, and energy, have made significant strides in initiating their investment ventures in the DRC, which we celebrate today”.
Adebiyi, however, acknowledged that, “our journey has not been devoid of challenges. Some Council members continue to navigate hurdles related to gaining full support from the DRC Investment Regulatory Commission. We recognize that the bureaucratic processes can be lengthy and cumbersome, creating barriers for investors striving to contribute to the DRC's growth.
“It is imperative that we address these challenges head-on. We advocate for direct access to affordable and reliable agencies that can facilitate investment registration and entry into investment activities in the DRC. As we convene here today, I sincerely hope that the Vice Premier and other government officials present will take our concerns into account and assist us in creating an enabling environment for our members eager to invest in this vibrant nation. A one-stop support center, as proposed, would significantly alleviate the challenges faced by our investors and demonstrate the commitment of the DRC government to foster a more investor-friendly landscape.
In addition to these achievements and challenges, Adebiyi added, “I am pleased to announce that the Council Secretariat is currently working on a robust website. This platform will not only provide invaluable information about the DRC-Nigeria Business Council but also facilitate business transactions among members and non-members alike. With this website, we aim to enhance communication, create networking opportunities, and ensure that all stakeholders have access to pertinent investment-related resources.
“Let us embrace the spirit of collaboration that procreate this Council. Together, we can push past the barriers that challenge us, seize the abundant opportunities that lie ahead, and build a prosperous future for both Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Your commitment and investment are crucial in this noble endeavor, and I am confident that, together, we will achieve remarkable success.”
The DRC delegation that followed the Vice Prime Minister to Nigeria for the meeting includes Hon. Gregoire Mutshayi- Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Nkinzo Mulume- Minister for Mines and Amb. Pacifique Kahasha ' Special Envoy to President Felix Tshekedi, and Mme Nicole Sulu Mukatano.
The Nigerian members present include the Vice President of the Council and governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo
Mr. Jimi Lawal representing 2nd Vice President, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and Aliko Dangote.
They also included Wale Lawal, Abdullahi Bashir, Usman Mohammed, Dr. Mrs. Samson ((Bovas Oil and Gas), Tope Shonubi( Sahara Energy),Tope Runsewe ( Sagey- Grey) and Chief Dr. Chidi Anyaegbu, (CHISCO).
Also, Arch. Mrs. Fifi Ejindu, Wale Adeosun ( Kiramo capital), Mrs Okoli (Mama Emzor) Bamikole Oladokun and Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, whose hotel played host.
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