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Boosting Economic Ties: Nigeria-US Business Meeting Promotes Investment Opportunities

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Boosting Economic Ties: Nigeria-US Business Meeting Promotes Investment Opportunities

United States Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo (left), and
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Doris Uzoka-Anite,
at the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the
United States and Nigeria, outlining new avenues of commercial
cooperation, in Washington DC, at the weekend.


The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Washington, DC, hosted a Government-to-Business (G2B) and Business-to-Business (B2B) meeting on July 24, 2024, on the sidelines of the AGOA Forum 2024. The event aimed to strengthen economic relations and promote investment opportunities between Nigeria and the United States.

Representing the Nigerian Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, were Charles Odii, Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), and Nonye Ayeni, head of agency in the ministry.

The meeting highlighted the importance of small business growth through accessible funding, with entrepreneurs now able to secure single-digit interest rate loans. Eight key sectors ripe for investment and growth were identified, including the fashion industry. Nigeria currently stands as the second-largest US trading partner in Africa, with two-way trade surpassing $10.6 billion. Discussions emphasized the need for ongoing follow-up and information sharing, with attendees highlighting the success of Maryland’s sister state initiatives with Ondo and Cross River states.

However, bureaucratic bottlenecks remain a significant hurdle for small investors. Opportunities in agricultural exports, including cocoa and cotton production, and energy supply and security were also explored. Personal success stories from Nigerian entrepreneurs illustrated the potential for running manufacturing companies in Nigeria, with the diaspora encouraged to patronize and promote made-in-Nigeria products.

The meeting concluded with a strong call to invest in Nigeria and offered support for easing the transition into the Nigerian market.


L-R: Charles Odii DG/CEO SMEDAN, Nonye Ayeni. ED/CEO, NEPC
and Boniface Ihiasota _Publisher DiasporaWatch/ CEO Excel Global
Media Group Inc. at the Nigeria Embassy Washington DC

L-R: Charles Odii DG/CEO SMEDAN, Nonye Ayeni. ED/CEO, NEPC
and Boniface Ihiasota _Publisher DiasporaWatch/ CEO Excel Global
Media Group Inc. at the Nigeria Embassy Washington DC

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Nigerian Banks’ Upgrade Chaos: A Call for Customer-Centric Solutions

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Diaspora Watch Newspaper-Vol.20

Diaspora Watch Newspaper-Vol.20

Nigerian banks’ rush to upgrade their core banking systems has caused confusion and frustration for many customers. With banks upgrading to more secure software, the lack of communication and customer support has left millions unable to access their funds, sparking questions about the bank’s commitment to customer welfare.

Dr. Uju Ogubunka, President of Bank Customers Association of Nigeria (BCAN), emphasized the severe impact of these disruptions, stressing the need for better communication and customer preparedness during such transitions. Banks must strike a balance between technological upgrades and customer service to retain trust, especially in an economy facing devaluation pressures.

Read Also:
Oando PLC Makes Historic Acquisition Of Nigerian Agip Oil Company, Reshaping Nigeria’s Oil And Gas Landscape

Customer Reviews on “Diaspora Watch”
Amina Oluwatoyin, Lagos, Nigeria:
“Diaspora Watch is a vital source of information for Nigerians abroad. It connects us with home, highlighting issues and successes within our community. The articles are insightful and relevant, making it a must-read!”

Claire Dupont, Paris, France:
“Diaspora Watch offers a fresh perspective on African diaspora experiences. However, some articles lack depth. I hope for more thorough research and in-depth features in future issues.”

Li Wei, Beijing, China:
“Diaspora Watch provides a unique lens on the challenges and triumphs of Africans abroad. It’s a great resource for understanding the diverse narratives of our diaspora.”

Grace Aidoo, Accra, Ghana:
“Diaspora Watch bridges the gap between home and abroad, especially with its focus on community initiatives. It’s my go-to for news that matters to Ghanaians abroad.”

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Echoes Of Unfulfilled Promises In Nigeria’s Journey

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ICPC Nigeria - Diaspora Watch Newspaper

As Nigeria commemorates its 64th Independence anniversary, the stark contrast between celebration and the persistent challenges of corruption, mismanagement, and unfulfilled promises becomes evident.

The editorial revisits historical attempts at reform, such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission’s (ICPC) prosecutions and the House of Representatives’ inquiry into the unfulfilled $14.5 million aircraft repair contract. Many of these initiatives have faded from public memory, leaving questions about accountability unresolved.

High-profile corruption cases, including the Halliburton scandal involving alleged bribes of $180 million, highlight systemic failures within the political landscape.

The editorial emphasizes the need for collective action from citizens, civil society, and the media to demand transparency and accountability. It warns that without addressing these entrenched failures, Nigeria’s path toward democracy and good governance may continue to be fraught with unfulfilled promises.

DWN OCT -7 - 13, 2024_Page_03-Nigerias-Unfulfilled-Promises

Dive into the world of Diaspora Watch and stay informed, engaged, and inspired.

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Global Competition Claims Scotland’s Oldest Refinery: Grangemouth To Close In 2025

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Global Competition Claims Scotland's Oldest Refinery: Grangemouth To Close In 2025

In a significant blow to Scotland’s energy sector, the 100-year-old Grangemouth refinery is set to close in 2025, citing its inability to compete with modern plants in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The refinery’s operator, Petroineos, announced the closure, which will result in the loss of 400 jobs. 

Located in Scotland, Grangemouth refinery has been in operation since 1924, making it the country’s oldest and only refinery. However, despite its rich history, the refinery has struggled to remain competitive in the face of mounting global competition. Petroineos, a joint venture between PetroChina Internation al London (PCIL) and INEOS Group, a British chemicals firm founded by billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has invested $1.2 billion in the refinery since 2011.

However, the company has incurred significant losses, totalling over $775 million during the same period. According to Petroineos, the refinery is currently losing around $500,000 per day and expects a $200 million loss in 2024. 

The company’s Chief Executive, Frank Demay, stated that the market for petrol and diesel fuels is expected to shrink further due to the upcoming ban on new petrol and diesel cars within the next decade. “Grangemouth is increasingly unable to compete with bigger, more modern and efficient sites in the Middle East, Asia and Africa.  

Due to its size and configuration, Grangemouth incurs high levels of capital expenditure each year just to maintain its licence to operate,” Demay explained. The closure of Grangemouth refinery marks a significant shift in the global oil refining landscape, with modern and efficient plants in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East gaining a competitive edge. The Dangote Refinery in Nigeria, one of the largest refineries in Africa, may have contributed to the decline of Grangemouth refinery.

The refinery will be converted into a fuel import terminal, ensuring Scotland’s energy needs are still met. However, the closure raises concerns about the country’s energy security and the impact on local communities.

Read Also
Oando PLC Makes Historic Acquisition Of Nigerian Agip Oil Company,
Reshaping Nigeria’s Oil And Gas Landscape
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