Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has stepped up efforts to attract private capital into the state, assuring investors of government support, improved security and an enabling business environment to drive economic growth and job creation.

The Governor gave the assurance while commissioning the Imperium Palatium Hotel in Lokoja, describing the investment by the Elulu of Mopa, His Royal Highness, Oba Muyiwa Ibeun, as a practical demonstration of confidence in state’s economic potential.

Ododo urged successful Kogites at home and in the diaspora, corporate organisations and other investors to bring their businesses into the state, noting that its strategic location, natural resources and connectivity to major parts of the country offer significant investment opportunities.

He said his administration was deliberately creating an economy driven by private enterprise, with government providing the security, infrastructure and policies required for businesses to thrive.

“Government cannot employ everybody, but we can create the environment for businesses to employ thousands,” the Governor declared.

He noted that investment in hospitality, manufacturing, commerce and other sectors would expand employment opportunities, stimulate economic activities and strengthen the state’s revenue base.

Ododo also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in strengthening security across the country, describing security as a critical factor in building investor confidence.

Earlier, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, commended the hotel founder for bringing the investment to Kogi and thanked the Governor for providing a conducive atmosphere to attract private enterprise.

In his remarks, the founder, Oba Muyiwa Ibeun, expressed appreciation to the Governor for the commitment of his administration to security and development, which he said had encouraged expansion of investment opportunities in the state.