…As Omo-Agege emerges FOSSCCIMA Patron
As the Coalition of South South Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (FOSSCCIMA) looked inward to boost economic development, prosperity, and eradicate poverty among people of the region, the Deputy President of Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has called for economic integration among South South States.
Sen Omo-Agege who was appointed as the Patron of FOSSCCIMA, observed that a well integrated South South economy will provide a relatively strong bloc for national economic revival and sustained growth, peace and security in the region.
The Deputy Senate President was speaking at the 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Investiture of FOSSCCIMA in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital Friday, 16th October 2020.
Omo-Agege who was represented by his Special Assistant on Special Duties, Mr ‘Godwin Anaughe, said South South region needs economic integration that will set the entire region a more prosperous growth path.
In his words: “I wish to make it very clear, however, that the economic integration of the South-South is not a short term answer to the current socio-economic problems of the region.
“Rather, it is the long-term answer to the question of South-South economic growth, diversification, competitiveness, enterprise and jobs.
“The quest for regional economic integration in the South-South is not new.The quest for regional economic integration in the South-South is not new.
“Over a decade ago, the governors of the region floated the same idea and sought to forge closer economic cooperation and integration among the six states of the South-South geo-political zone namely Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Cross-River, Edo and Delta (BRACED).
“It is against this backdrop that I find the theme for this year’s Lecture ‘Economic Integration of the South-South Region – A panacea for Economic Growth’ apt and timely.
“FOSSCCIMA has an important role to play too. Through public-private partnerships, the Coalition can mobilize members to invest in some of these business ventures. In the immediate years ahead, it would be a thing of delight to see high levels of cooperation between BRACED Commission and FOSSCCIMA.
“Regrettably however, this bold attempt at regional economic integration aimed at pooling of resources together, stimulating production, trade and investment which would have alleviated poverty failed as the BRACED Commission established to drive the process remained ineffective.
“However, in spite of the setbacks of the past, it is my hope that the present tough times occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic will open the door for greater cooperation among the BRACED states.
“This is of huge importance to the region. I therefore urge the governors of these states to work together to deepen economic relations, spur job creation and promote economic recovery.”
He urged the South South States to be more proactive looking into opportunities that are promising in the region following the current deregulation of the oil industry and planned increase in electricity tariff.
While charging them to look beyond oil and pool resources together, in partnership with the private sector to establish large publicly quoted companies in manufacturing, tourism, agriculture among others the Deputy Senate President also called on the states to; also pool resources together to invest in regional infrastructure like super highways and railways, electricity and gas.
He commended President Mohammadu Buhari for his plan to take 100m youths out of poverty by 2030.
The AGM/Investiture of FOSSCCIMA President, Dr. Okon Emah and Exco drawn many captain of industry across the South South region while Sen. Omo-Agege charged them to take advantage of government policies.Special Adviser on Special Duties
The Ntisong Ibibio lll, Engr. Essien Ekidem called FOSSCCIMA President, Dr. Okon Emah and his Exco not to assume office and go to sleep. FOSSCCIMA is the mouthpiece of the private sector and any government policy not in favor of the private sector must be voice out.
The Royal Father, Ekidem maintained that they have to synergize with government for robust economy, create jobs for the youths and expand the business.
The President of Uyo Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, UYOCCIMA Obong Nseyen Ebong congratulated Dr. Okon Emah as the FOSSCCIMA president.
Ebong reiterated that UYOCCIMA would synergize and harness resources to grow the economy of the state. He added that those youths would be mentor and those with skills will be given opportunity to maximize their skills.
