The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has urged global investors to consider the state as a preferred investment destination, capitalise on the state’s geographical location, investor-friendly environment and economic potentials.

The state’s Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, who spoke recently at the House of Lords in the United Kingdom, declared that Edo is ready for business.

Fresh from celebrating its first 100 days in office, an achievement marked by the presence of dignitaries from across Nigeria to witness remarkable progress in road construction, security, and infrastructure, Edo State’s leadership is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth and investment opportunities, Idahosa emphasised that the state is stepping into a new era of economic transformation, signaling to the world that it is ready and open for business.

Bearing a clear mandate from Governor Okpebholo, Idahosa took  center stage at the prestigious upper house of the Parliament of the United Kingdom where he addressed an elite audience of British business leaders, institutional investors, private investors, African diplomats, ambassadors, and international stakeholders, outlining Edo’s ambitious vision to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and drive industrialization, infrastructure development, and economic prosperity.

In his encapsulating message, Idahosa stressed that “It is no longer business as usual”, a declaration that aligns with the current administration’s unwavering commitment to reform, innovation, and global partnerships.

Idahosa’s address at the House of Lords is a re-enforcement of Edo State Government’s five-point agenda, which embodies a comprehensive framework designed to reposition the state as a beacon of investment and development in Nigeria. More so, the agenda is seamlessly in order with President Bola Tinubu’s broader economic transformation vision, ensuring that Edo is not just participating in Nigeria’s growth but driving the vision.

The five-point agenda anchors on industrialization and job creation, which borders on aggressive pushing for the establishment of industries, transform Edo into a manufacturing and technology hub for industrial growth and create employment and generate wealth.

Prominently, the state government is determined to explore its vast arable land and favourable climatic conditions, in order to boost agriculture and food security in the state and become a major player in agribusiness, ensuring food security while driving exports.

The administration is prioritising infrastructure development such as road networks, power supply, and real estate development, to support business operations and improve the ease of doing business.

“Edo State is open for investment, and we welcome partners from across the world to join us in building a sustainable and prosperous future. The government is fully committed to creating an enabling environment that fosters ease of business, security, and long-term profitability for investors,” Dr Dennis Idahosa told the gathering.

Edo State prides itself as a gateway to both the northern and southern economic corridors of the country, owing to its central location. With access to major ports and a well-connected transportation network, businesses operating in the state can easily distribute goods and services across Nigeria and beyond, boasting why should be global investors’ first choice.

Edo is known for its thriving energy and industrial sectors.

Edo is home to significant energy resources, including natural gas and renewable energy potential. The government is actively working to harness these resources to power industries, making it an attractive destination for manufacturing and production companies.

One of the factors that make Edo an enchanting destination for investors is its growing tech and innovation hub.

With an increasing focus on digital transformation, the state is fostering a tech-friendly environment that encourages startups, fintech, and digital entrepreneurs to thrive. It is attracting major technology investors due to its commitment to ICT infrastructure.

Backed by a strong leadership with global recognition, Edo State embarks on an ambitious journey of transformation and its leadership continues to gain acceptability on the global stage, demonstrating that it is no longer a sleeping giant but awake, ambitious and ready to engage with the world.

In testament to his exceptional leadership in business and governance, Idahosa was recently conferred with a Doctorate in Business Management and Leadership from the esteemed City of Paris University. This prestigious honour does not only underscore his dedication to driving economic growth but also positions him as a key figure in shaping Edo State’s investment landscape.

“This recognition is not just about me—it is about the vision we have for Edo State and Nigeria as a whole. It is a call to further action, to build bridges, foster collaborations, and create lasting impact,” Idahosa said, while expressing gratitude for the milestone.