In a Sunday speech in Doha, Qatar, President Bola Tinubu promised to deal with anyone who attempts to erode investor trust in the nation by demanding bribes.
The president assured the world’s business community that Nigeria is prepared for serious business and that his administration would take firm action against any vested interests that threaten investor faith in the country’s economy.
Speaking on Sunday at the Nigeria-Qatar Business and Investment Forum in Doha, the President also promised to clear up any obstacles to successful, lawful business ventures and regain the trust of foreign investors in the nation.
The President informed Qatari investors that Africa’s largest economy and its processes are being reformed and updated to increase investments, following the signing of seven agreements between Nigeria and Qatar earlier.
Therefore, with full assurance of their direct access to the President’s office, he invited Qatar’s captains of industry to report any government official who demands a bribe or any type of inducement at any point in their business endeavors going ahead.
“Forget about what you heard in the past; I’m here to assure you that reforms are underway. Whatever difficulty or issue some of you may have encountered is now behind you because there won’t be another one in the future.”
“Never offer bribes to any of our people, and report to us if you are asked for or given one. I shall be reachable by you. Nigeria shall be identified going ahead by our actions and not by the past.”
“Avoid letting opinions get in the way of your desire to make investments. Nigeria is committed to transforming the promotion of investment. Obstacles are being removed today, and we will keep removing them all. In just nine months, we’ve accomplished so much. You can enter and go at no cost, I assure you. Your money will enter and exit our nation without any problems. Just bring your money,” the President said.
The President further stated that the choice of Nuhu Ribadu, a former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as the National Security Adviser (NSA), has greatly improved Nigeria’s fight against corruption and insecurity.
“As an anti-corruption czar, we have a man who has won numerous international awards for fighting corruption.”
“It is my job to inform you that Nigeria is open for business and to ensure you that your investments are safe in our hands. Here are some very reputable men and women. We are certain that we can form a strong committee to guide our talks towards successful outcomes.”
“Until it is led by excellent people, a nation is an artificial construct. We have wonderful people, and people build great nations. We are prepared,” the President declared.
The President informed his host that Nigeria has abundant resources in some areas, including solid minerals and oil and gas. I don’t see why we can’t work together extensively to explore iron ore, steel manufacturing, and energy in general.
“I’m here to reassure you in every area: travel, lodging, medical treatment, and a host of other options that surround us. Don’t be the investors who pass up this fantastic chance,” the President continued.
Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah Al Thani, Qatar’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the delegation from Nigeria and stated that his country is eager to explore opportunities in Nigeria because of its market and population composition. Qatar is prioritizing new investments in low-carbon initiatives, mineral products, petroleum chemicals, industry, and consumables.
“We are eager to collaborate with our Nigerian counterparts to accomplish our shared goals in these areas,” the Minister declared.
Governor Babagana Zulum, together with Uba Sani from Kaduna State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu from Lagos State, and Wale Edun, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, escorted President Tinubu to the Nigeria-Qatar Business and Investment Forum.
The others are Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dle Alake, Minister of Youth, Minister of Trade, Industry, and Investment Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Social Welfare and Health Coordinating Minister Ali Pate, Minister of Youth, and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Ekperipe Ekpo.
Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser on Energy and National Security; and Kelvin Oue, President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), were also present at the meeting.
