The Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) has said regardless of the present economic situation, foreign investors still have Nigeria as their business destination.
Deputy President of the chamber, Mr Abimbola Olashore, made the remark at the inward trade mission program organised by the NBCC in partnership with the British Deputy High Commission, which featured United Kingdom companies in the fashion and beauty industry in ” Meet the Buyer event.”
While appreciating the guests both foreign and local investors, Olashore emphasised the fact that there were great opportunities in the country despite the economic challenges.
On her part, Mrs. Anne Rinu, the chairperson of Advocacy Committee reiterated the need to invest in Nigeria looking at the track records of many investors who had succeeded in Nigeria’s business environment.
She pointed out evidences emanating from historical records of some companies that grew from scratch to great companies today.
“You can sell what you have. If you can navigate through it, you will have a success story.
“Our Government is striving towards resolving our inadequate infrastructure, corruption and security. I believe we all have a duty to make Nigeria a better place to do business.”
Also speaking, Joke Bakare, the Chief Executive Officer of Medplus, who narrated her experience as a start up in Nigeria, applauded the investors , encouraging and assuring them of better climate.
Mrs. Angela Hencher, the Chief Operating Officer of Charterhouse, who was represented by Director of Communications, Admissions and Marketing, Charter House Lagos, Damilola Olatunbosun spoke of the huge project of Charterhouse which included the building of a British standard school in Nigeria.
Olatunbosun noted that despite the forex challenge, businesses have to work round it to make a headway.
He pointed out the negative perception of the UK about Nigeria in terms of corruption and difficult business terrain, but noted that Nigerians were hospitable.
“We are not focusing on the negatives but projecting the positives, that is why we are here.”
He said to do business in Nigeria, one has to be patient, focus on connections to build capacity, noting that the NBCC has been a great support.
The panelists, who were able to drive home reasons for investing in Nigeria as their destination included Mrs. Ozohu Adoh, Founder EPARA; Bobby Morrison, CEO Kartel watches; Daniel Logie, CEO Boohoo Man group; Erica Free Mantle, EATOW; Andy Moss, CEO Gel Bottle; Craig May, CEO Peaks, among others.