Borno revives 5 moribund industries through PPP
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Borno Government says it has commenced the revitalisation of five moribund state-owned industries through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to stimulate economic growth, create jobs and increase Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan, Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Tourism, disclosed this in an interview with the newsmen in Maiduguri.
Hassan said the initiative was aimed at restoring the operational capacity of the industries while reducing the government’s financial burden and encouraging greater private-sector participation.
He identified the industries as Tomato Taste Factory, NIETAL Shoes and Tannery, Borno Plastic Company, Solar Panel Factory and Waste Bin Factory.
According to him, the PPP arrangement will enable private investors to provide capital, modern technology and management expertise, while the government focuses on regulation and provision of an enabling business environment.
The commissioner said the initiative was part of Gov. Babagana Zulum’s administration’s efforts to diversify the state’s economy and reduce dependence on federal allocations.
He said improved security and governance had created a favourable environment for investors to return to Borno after years of insurgency that disrupted industrial activities.
“Our doors are open to any investor who wants to come and invest in Borno.
“We want to create an economically viable environment where industries can thrive, create employment and contribute to the development of the state,” he said.
Hassan said the government was also strengthening Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), tourism, industrial value chains and trans-border trade through collaboration with the Borno Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (BOCCIMA).
Meanwhile, a businessman, Mr Ali Musa, urged the government to sustain attention to the revival of moribund industries, saying the return of peace provided an opportunity to accelerate industrial development.
Musa said revitalising the industries would create employment for youths, boost IGR and reduce dependence on government jobs.
He commended the PPP initiative but urged transparency and accountability in its implementation to protect public assets and ensure value for money.
He also called for incentives, affordable financing, infrastructure and electricity to encourage local investors and strengthen Borno’s industrial recovery.
