‘Edo most businesses-friendly state in Nigeria’

The Edo State’s Commissioner for Mines and Energy, Donatus Ojiefoh, said Godwin Obaseki-led reforms in the electricity and the solid mineral sectors have repositioned the state as one of the most business-friendly in Nigeria.

Ojiefoh spoke in an interview with newsmen in Benin City on the gains of the Obaseki-led administration and why residents must support the government in ensuring sustainable development.

He noted that sustaining the reforms and achievements is important to build a sustainable economy.

He said in harnessing maximally the abundant mineral resources, the state government has registered the Edo State Mining and Investment Company and has obtained 40 mining licences.

“If Obaseki was the governor before now, Edo state would have been one of the richest states in the federation. The next governor that is coming must be able to match Obaseki’s weight; somebody that understands the investment and development status of the state at the moment.

“Edo state is 10 years ahead of other states apart from Lagos. Edo has put over 20 million files into the e-governance structure since the state was created and is the only state operating 100 per cent e-governance.

“Obaseki has saved over N60 billion for Edo State just on office stationery alone. Whatever paper you see in my office are external papers or files. It takes a man with a potent brain, who understands cost-saving to achieve that,” he said.