Representatives of industry in Qatar have been requested by President Bola Tinubu to report any Nigerian official who requests a bribe of any kind before permitting them to conduct business in the nation.
He maintained that Nigeria will not be constrained by past events, which was marred by corruption and bureaucratic roadblocks that made conducting business difficult.
“Do not offer a bribe to any of our people, and if it is requested or taken from you, report to us. You will have access to me,” Tinubu said at the Nigeria-Qatar Business and Investment Forum in Doha, on Sunday.
This was revealed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement titled ‘President Tinubu to Qatari investors: Report to me my officials who obstruct progress or ask for bribe; no deviation from path to prosperity.’
Along with assuring the world’s business community that his administration would take decisive action against any and all ingrained interests in the nation that weakened investor confidence in the Nigerian economy, Tinubu also declared that Nigeria was prepared for real business.
“I am here to give you the assurance that reforms are going on; forget about whatever you heard in the past.
“Whatever the obstacle or problem that some of you might have experienced; it is in the past because there is no obstacle in the future,” he said.
Additionally, Tinubu gave investors assurances about the ease with which their money would move within and outside the economy.
“We are removing obstacles today and we are going to continue to remove all obstacles.
“We have done so much within nine months. And I am assuring you, it is free entry and free exit.
“Your funds will flow smoothly into and out of our country. Bring your investments,” the President stated.
The President revealed that Nuhu Ribadu, the former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, had been appointed as National Security Advisor, greatly bolstering Nigeria’s fight against corruption and insecurity.
“We have a man who has won many global awards for anti-corruption as an anti-corruption czar.
“My responsibility is to tell you that Nigeria is open for business and to assure you that your investments are safe in our hands.
“We have men and women of great reputation here. And we believe we can forge a good committee that will advance our discussions to fruitful conclusions” the President affirmed.
Tinubu said, Nigeria overflows with vast opportunities in various industries, telling his host: “We have oil and gas; we have solid minerals. I do not see why we cannot become prolific partners in exploring iron ore, as well as steel production, and energy across the board.
“I am here to give you assurances in all spheres: tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and many other opportunities that abound around us. Do not be the investors who miss out on the golden opportunity we present,” he added.
The Minister of Commerce and Industry of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Abdullah Al Thani, welcomed the group from Nigeria and stated that, given Nigeria’s market and demographic makeup, his country is eager to explore potential business prospects there. The delegation was joined by prominent members of the Qatar business community.
As Qatar aims to emphasize new investments in low-carbon projects, mineral goods, petroleum chemicals, industry, and consumables, Al Thani stated that this is essential as well.
“We look forward to working with our Nigerian counterparts to achieve our joint objectives in these sectors,” the Minister remarked.
