Anambra State is intensifying efforts to create a tech-driven, business-friendly environment as part of a broader digital reform agenda aimed at improving its national ranking for ease of doing business. At the inaugural State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) technical session and town hall meeting held on July 8, 2025, in Awka, state officials, private sector leaders, and federal reform champions convened to discuss strategies and progress in reform implementation.
Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, who was represented at the event by Deputy Governor Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, reiterated the state government’s commitment to deliberate, data-driven business reforms. He emphasised a continuous improvement approach, echoing his belief that “if you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it.” Despite Anambra’s current position as 7th nationally and the leading state in the South East on ease of doing business, the government views these rankings as milestones within a larger, ongoing reform process grounded in technology, planning, and accountability.
The event formed part of a nationwide outreach by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), a body driving national reforms to enhance business climates across Nigeria. Addressing the gathering via video, Princess Zahra Mustapha Audu, Director General of PEBEC, outlined SABER as a transformative partnership backed by a $750 million World Bank-supported initiative. It aims to help states adopt global best practices to establish more transparent, efficient business environments. She stressed that successful reform hinges not just on policy design but effective implementation, positioning states as primary engines of economic growth.
Highlighting the significance of public-private collaboration, the State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, noted that over 98% of Anambra’s wealth is held by the private sector. This underscores the importance of government reforms that are responsive to business needs, ensuring a competitive edge for investors and entrepreneurs alike.
The technical session recognised the consistent efforts by Anambra’s reform champions, who have contributed to the state’s respectable rankings in 2021 and 2023. PEBEC reform leaders encouraged the state to redouble efforts in preparation for the next national ease of doing business evaluation slated for December 2025, which will spotlight top-performing and most improved states, along with tailored recommendations for investors.
Anambra’s reform agenda prominently features technology as a central pillar. Initiatives highlighted include the Anambra Geographic Information System (ANAMGIS), which digitises land administration processes, thereby reducing bureaucratic delays and increasing transparency in land dealings. The establishment of a Grievance Redress Mechanism is fostering quicker resolution of investor concerns, while the adoption of the standardized .anambrastate.gov.ng domain is enhancing trust in official government communications.
The administration is also advancing the expansion of fibre optic ducts to support 5G connectivity under its “Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere” vision, which aims to position Anambra as a modern digital hub. Civic participation has been strengthened through platforms like Solution Lens, which allows residents to monitor and report on government projects, enhancing transparency and accountability.
Complementing these digital reforms are strategic infrastructure projects such as improved road networks designed to facilitate easier movement and business operations within the state. These measures collectively aim to position Anambra as a smarter, more investor-friendly environment, fostering economic activities and growth.
Looking ahead, both the government and stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to keeping reforms measurable, technology-led, and centred on investor needs. With a combination of intentional governance and innovative digital solutions, Anambra State is striving to solidify its status as a premier destination for business investment and entrepreneurial success within Nigeria.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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