The Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to creating a business-friendly environment aimed at unlocking opportunities and fostering economic growth to attract investments. The government is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the state.

During the opening of a two-day stakeholders meeting for the 2024 Business Enabling Reforms Action Plan (BERAP) in Umuahia on Wednesday, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the Deputy Governor, emphasized that the SABER project demonstrates the administration’s commitment to cultivating an environment that promotes sustainable development, economic diversification, and social inclusivity.

He stated, “By developing actionable reforms through a collaborative approach, we intend to align our state’s policies and practices with global best practices and tackle the unique challenges faced by businesses operating in Abia. This gathering brings together a diverse group of stakeholders from various sectors, each playing a vital role in shaping the future of our business landscape. Your presence here highlights our shared commitment to advancing the economy through innovative reforms and collaborative efforts.”

As the discussions unfold and we draft the 2024 BERAP, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of this document in establishing the direction for our state’s economic environment in the coming year. The Deputy Governor, who serves as the Chairman of the Abia State Ease of Doing Business Council, urged all participants to engage actively, share practical insights, and ensure that the final document is both comprehensive and actionable.

He reassured members of the Abia State Ease of Doing Business Council of the government’s steadfast support for implementing the outcomes of the meeting, stating, “Together, we will continue to position Abia State as a beacon of progress, a hub of innovation, and an attractive destination for enterprise.”

In her earlier remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Ease of Doing Business, Barr. Agbonma Jennifer Uka-Obasi, explained that the Business Enabling Reforms and Action Plan (BERAP) aims to enhance collaboration between Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and the private sector to effectively implement the State Action on Business Enabling Reform Project (SABER) while ensuring compliance with and efficient execution of SERAP verification protocols for these reforms.