Governor Charles Soludo states that his administration is committed to creating a tech-driven and business-friendly environment in Anambra.

Mr Soludo gave the assurance on Wednesday at the maiden edition of the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms technical session and state-wide town hall held in Awka.

The event formed part of the nationwide tour by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council.

PEBEC aimed at bringing federal reform champions face-to-face with state officials, private sector leaders and the business community.

He said that the state’s business reforms were deliberate and data-driven.

“Our belief here in Anambra is that if you cannot measure it, you cannot improve it. Anambra currently ranks 7th nationally and leads the South-East on ease of doing business.

“These reforms are ongoing; they involve measurable processes grounded in technology, planning and accountability,” he said.

Also speaking, Zahra Mustapha-Audu, PEBEC director-general, said the SABER programme was a $750 million World Bank-supported initiative.

Ms Mustapha-Audu explained that the programme, which represents a transformative partnership, was co-designed to help states implement global standards and foster more transparent and business-friendly environments.

“Designing reforms matters, but real impact comes from effectively implementing them, with states as the true engines of economic growth,” she said.

Earlier, the commissioner for budget and economic planning, Chiamaka Nnake, said over 98 per cent of the state’s wealth is concentrated in the private sector.

According to her, with such development, government reforms need to be intentional and responsive.

“Under Governor Soludo’s leadership, Anambra has remained intentional about ensuring businesses face fewer obstacles and enjoy a competitive edge,” Ms Nnake said.

During the technical session, PEBEC reform lead, Gabriel Ohiemi, commended Anambra’s digital and business reforms.

“The state government’s resolve in these areas is commendable, and it earned the state seventh place nationally and first in the South-East in 2021 and 2023.

“We encourage Anambra to deepen its reforms ahead of the next ranking in December 2025. The event will spotlight top-performing states and most improved states, alongside tailored recommendations for investors,” said Mr Ohiemi.

(NAN)