● Ferdy Agu
Enugu, Nigeria – The Enugu State Government has signed a landmark strategic partnership agreement with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), aimed at accelerating trade and investment inflows into the state. The partnership deal was sealed on Thursday at the Government House, Enugu, marking a significant step in the state’s economic transformation agenda.
As part of the collaboration, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State was named co-chair of the Governors’ Roundtable at the 2025 Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit scheduled to take place in London in April. This summit will convene business leaders and top government officials from the 56 Commonwealth nations.
CWEIC, a commercial, not-for-profit membership organization, operates with an official mandate from the Commonwealth Heads of Government to facilitate trade and investment across member nations. Speaking at the signing ceremony, CWEIC Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Rosie Glazebrook, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that it aligns with the council’s mission.
“We are delighted to sign the strategic partnership with the Governor. Our organization is here to drive trade and investment by leveraging our extensive network and convening power. We aim to showcase what Enugu has to offer and work to reduce barriers to trade while fostering investments,” Mrs. Glazebrook stated.
Accompanied by CWEIC partners, including Nigeria Country Director Mr. Obinna Anyanwu, Novare South Africa representative Mr. Ayotunde Adesulu, and Regional Head for South South & South East, Emerging Africa Group, Mr. Collins Olise, Glazebrook praised Enugu’s investment prospects. She highlighted key sectors such as education, infrastructure, and tourism as ripe for development.
“The opportunities here are immense – whether in education, infrastructure, or the proposed light railway. These are areas of great interest to our partners,” she said. Glazebrook also commended Governor Mbah’s efforts to de-risk investment in the state, describing the Governors’ Roundtable as a highlight of the 2025 summit.
Governor Mbah underscored the importance of the strategic partnership, aligning it with his administration’s ambitious goal to grow Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. “This growth cannot happen by chance. It requires deliberate, intentional actions, and this partnership with CWEIC is a crucial step toward achieving our vision,” the governor said.
He further explained that the partnership would provide Enugu with access to CWEIC’s vast network of over 140 private sector partners. “We see this as a platform to unlock partnerships between government and businesses. The value of this collaboration cannot be overstated,” Mbah added.
A development expert, Dr. Chijioke Nwobodo, praised the partnership, describing it as a catalyst for transformative economic development in the state. He noted, “This agreement will position the state as a global investment hub, attracting critical infrastructure and boosting the local economy. It is a testament to Governor Mbah’s proactive leadership.”
Highlighting the potential for private sector growth, Mr. Emmanuel Obi, a business consultant, said, “This collaboration bridges the gap between local businesses and international markets, fostering innovation and trade. The timing is perfect, and it will stimulate a wide range of opportunities for entrepreneurs in Enugu.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Nkechi Okafor, an economist, focused on the broader implications for competitiveness. “Governor Mbah is redefining how sub-national governments in Nigeria approach economic growth. This partnership with CWEIC sets a high standard and positions Enugu as a model for investment-driven progress,” she remarked.
Mrs. Glazebrook reaffirmed CWEIC’s commitment to ensuring that Enugu maximizes its potential under the agreement. “We are here to collaborate and make sure that Enugu benefits from our network and expertise. The 2025 summit will be a platform to showcase Enugu to the world,” she said.
The CWEIC partnership is expected to usher in a new era of economic prosperity for Enugu State, attracting investments and positioning it as a key player in global trade. GMTNewsng
