The Edo State Commissioner for Business, Trade and Investment, Omoh Anabor, has led a high-level delegation to Freedom Group in Benin City to explore deeper collaboration on investment promotion, international market access, and reforms aimed at improving the state’s business environment.
The delegation included the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. F. Edokpolor, alongside other senior management staff of the Ministry of Business, Trade and Investment (MBTI).
They were received by Freedom Group’s Managing Director, Mr. Ohiro Orumen, who represented the company’s Chairman, Deacon (Dr.) Vincent Agenmonmen, and its President/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ehi Agenmonmen.
In his remarks, Commissioner Anabor emphasized that trade and investment fall primarily under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government. He noted that several federal grants and intervention programmes are available for states and private sector operators, stressing the need for Edo State to strategically access these opportunities to drive broader economic growth.
He also highlighted the state government’s priorities, which include expanding economic activities through partnerships, improving financing access for SMEs, increasing job creation through value-chain development, and strengthening the state’s investment competitiveness.
Freedom Group, through its Managing Director, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government-led initiatives that promote industrial expansion. The company noted that its experience in mining and related sectors positions it as a valuable partner for investment and resource development across the state.
Company executives raised concern over difficulties in accessing major international markets—particularly for high-value minerals like lithium. They explained that limited global access forces local operators to rely on Chinese buyers who often dictate prices, while European and American markets remain restricted. They asked the state government to support the establishment of international linkages that would boost earnings, enhance investor confidence, and create jobs.
Freedom Group also highlighted business challenges involving revenue collection and taxation. They noted that some enterprises face double or triple taxation, and a significant share of collected revenue does not appear to enter government coffers—an issue they described as a hindrance to business sustainability.
In response, Commissioner Anabor assured that the state government is already implementing reforms. He explained that an automated revenue system is underway to eliminate multiple taxation, improve transparency, and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks affecting businesses in the state.
