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Oba Ewuare II Leads Dubai Investment Drive
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – April 2025
The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, urged international investors to tap emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s Edo State. The call came during a landmark investment outreach in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The event, organised by the Foreign Investment Network (FIN) with the Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), held at the Palm Jumeirah. It attracted multinational executives, Nigerian entrepreneurs in the Gulf and representatives of the Nigerian Consulate in Dubai.
Keynote Highlights from Oba Ewuare II
In his keynote address, Oba Ewuare II showcased Edo’s vast potential in agriculture, real estate and renewable energy, especially solar power. He said about 1,000 hectares of land have been set aside for large-scale housing developments. The projects will feature 24-hour power supply.
The monarch invited foreign partners to work with private investors and government agencies to boost infrastructure and economic growth. “The time to invest in Edo is now,” he declared. He noted that the state’s pro-business reforms and rich natural resources create a safe environment for profitable ventures.
Recognition and Government Support
The visit coincided with the 2025 Net Zero Middle East and Africa (MEA) Summit. During the summit, the Benin monarch received the Distinguished FIN Lifetime Achievement Award. The honour recognised his efforts to attract foreign direct investment and promote sustainable development.
Edo State officials, including ESIPO’s Managing Director Amen Odigie, reaffirmed the government’s pledge to create an investor-friendly climate. They cited reforms to strengthen property rights, enforce contracts and expand broadband access.
A Strategic Step for Edo’s Global Profile
No major investment agreements were announced immediately. Yet many observers consider the Dubai engagement a key step toward long-term partnerships. Economic commentators hailed Oba Ewuare II’s initiative as vital to the state’s foreign direct investment drive. They said the Benin monarchy is fast becoming a catalyst for economic transformation.
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