Former British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has given a strong vote of confidence in Nigeria’s investment climate, describing the country as a rising destination for global investors.
Johnson made the remark while speaking at the Imo Economic Summit, where he commended the state’s progress and Nigeria’s vast economic promise.
Addressing participants, Johnson said he arrived in the country despite hearing numerous reports about security concerns, but was impressed by what he witnessed on ground.
“Where is the country that you regard as the most with the next rush for investments? Nigeria. Nigeria has phenomenal potential growth,” he said, noting that the nation’s expanding population provides an enormous advantage if properly harnessed.
Johnson emphasized the need for Nigeria to continue creating an environment that attracts local and foreign investors, stressing the importance of human capital development.
“Nigeria needs to attract investors where its growing population will work. To unleash the potential, every girl has to have access to education as everyone else,” he added.
The former British leader also praised Imo State for the progress he observed during his visit, saying he was pleased with the state’s efforts to strengthen economic opportunities and improve security.
“I came with all the stories of security challenges but I said I will come anyway. I am happy with what I have seen in Imo State,” Johnson noted.
He further highlighted Nigeria’s strong entrepreneurial culture as a major advantage in the global economy.
“Also going for Nigeria is its entrepreneurial abilities — you have citizens with the education and language to operate globally,” he said.