By Balarabe Oshiafi, Abuja

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has said the local economy has recorded huge gains over the last three years of his administration, with the number of active companies in Kwara growing from just 41 in 2019 to 77 in 2022, representing an impressive 87.5 percent increase.

Quoting a data from the Kwara Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, in a release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaiye on Thursday, August 11, the Governor commended the business community for their strategic partnership with the government and said the rise is a tribute to the efforts of the administration to bring inclusive growth to Kwara and make life more worth living for its people.

He spoke in Ilorin, the state capital, at the Annual General Meeting and commissioning of the secretariat of the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN) whose resilience the Governor commended.

“From just four skeletal flights in 2019, we now have some 12 flights every day to and from the state capital, Ilorin. Notwithstanding the national economic challenges, I’m impressed by the resilience and consistent growth of the Kwara economy, Abdulrasaq said.

“As of July 19, 2022, we had just 15 C of O waiting for printing, with just 46 R of O and 15 Assignments also awaiting printing. Otherwise, we have ensured that the government’s processes are done expeditiously. We are similarly working on other proposals to improve the business climate in Kwara.”

AbdulRazaq said the rising inflation and security challenges in the country are surmountable with everybody playing their best roles, reiterating his administration’s resolve to continue to assist the business community in the State.

National President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Engr Mansur Ahmed, who described MAN as the backbone of economic development and sustainable growth, appreciated the efforts of the AbdulRazaq administration to improve the business climate in Kwara State.

“I have no doubt that (Your Excellency is) aware of the position and significance of the manufacturing sector in our economy. I am aware that you have indeed done a lot for the past three years to improve the environment for investors and particularly those in the manufacturing sector. I would like to use this opportunity to thank you for this

MAN’s Chairman for Kwara/Kogi States branch, Pharmacist Bioku Rahman, in his welcome address, appreciated the government for its giant strides and for creating an enabling atmosphere to grow businesses through the creation of Ease of Doing Business Council and other business-friendly policies in the State.

The CPS stated in the release that dignitaries from various walks of life graced the occasion.