Ambode promises enabling environment for investors

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Thursday pledged his commitment to creating an enabling environment for investors as a way of creating jobs for youths in the State.

Ambode made the pledge in Ikeja while receiving a delegation of Walmart Incorporated, a leading global brand in retail supermarket.

He said that the state was ready to give necessary support to assist investors in establishing presence in the state.

According to him, the presence of the brand in Lagos will go a long way, not only to create jobs for teeming youths, but also boost the economy of the state.

He said that the success story of the brand, which currently operates in 28 countries with over 2.2 million employees, would be beneficial to the growth of the state.

The governor said it would also help in actualising his vision to make life comfortable for residents.

”That summaries the reason Walmart has to berth in Lagos. We are committed to expanding the business scope for Walmart and like I said, I am interested in having your brand signature in Lagos.

”You have been pro-people and that is why we find a congress between the objectives of Walmart and Lagos State Government.

”We have a population of over 21 million people and four million of that population is in the middle class. We have a bulging youth that is craving for employment.

”And whatever it is that we do, we want to make sure that we attract as much investment in Lagos that can help us to take our youths off the streets and give them employment.

”What I stand here to offer is the commitment to make the investment climate favourable to investors and we are committed to the judicial and security sector reforms.

”These reforms will ensure that investments are well protected and that the sanctity of law is protected in this state.

”I want to assure that in the area of land permits or authorisation for issues that relate to setting up business, we are committed to make sure that we fast-track and do it as transparent as possible to allow more businesses come to Lagos, ” he said.

Mrs Shelley Broader, President and Chief Executive Officer of Walmart Europe, Middle East, Africa and Canada, acknowledged the investment opportunities that abound in the state.

Broader said that the Group was ready to expand its business horizon and create jobs for the people.

”We are incredibly excited and proud to be in this exciting state of Lagos. Just looking at the burgeoning economy and at the growth in this market is very exciting.

”Walmart operates around the world in 28 countries and our mission is to lower the cost of living, to help people save and live better, ”she said.