Edo State has recently concluded a comprehensive training session focused on advancing Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) reforms. The event, held at the One-Stop-Shop located in Block B of the Edo State Secretariat Building, brought together representatives from various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to strategize on creating a more business-friendly environment in the state.
Facilitated by experts in investment and business reform, the session featured presentations by Kelvin Uwaibi, Managing Director of the Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO) and Secretary of the Edo State Ease of Doing Business Council; Edionwere Joel, a consultant and former Permanent Secretary; Nkem Muoghalu, a seasoned EoDB specialist; Austin Akhabue, Director of the EoDB Secretariat; and Osaze Ogbomo, Team Lead of the Secretariat. Bright Omorogbe, Technical Adviser for the Edo State SABER Program, also contributed significantly to the discussions.
Participants shared practical insights into implementing reforms during their tenure, shedding light on challenges and successes. The training covered EoDB principles, indicators, and performance metrics, with a detailed needs assessment conducted for each participating MDA.
The session explored the integration of Sustainable Action for Business Environment Reforms (SABER) principles with EoDB strategies, showcasing the alignment between these frameworks. Kelvin Uwaibi, in his closing remarks, outlined actionable recommendations, including the need for:
- Updating the centralized business information repository.
- Engaging stakeholders through consultations with the private sector.
- Revising the state’s electricity law to support business activities.
- Launching a 90-day action plan to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
He further emphasized the importance of a service portal for government processes, efficient grievance redress mechanisms, and regular training on customer service management.
Technology Integration and Stakeholder Collaboration
The event underscored leveraging technology to improve government efficiency. The Edo State Geographic Information System (EDOGIS) was tasked with collaborating with ESIPO to automate the Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) process, while MDAs without websites were advised to coordinate with the Information Communication and Technology Agency (ICTA) for website creation.
Additionally, a communication strategy to inform citizens of ongoing reforms was proposed. Ministries were urged to maintain updated online platforms, while a data-sharing system akin to Estonia’s model was suggested to streamline processes.
Private Sector Engagement and Institutional Reforms
The training session highlighted the importance of private-sector feedback in validating reforms. It was recommended that MDAs improve communication channels, such as using WhatsApp for operational purposes due to limited email use among businesses. Linking social media accounts to MDA websites and maintaining clear signage at the State Secretariat were also proposed.
A notable mention was the Edo Specialist Hospital’s customer service initiative, which facilitates first-time visitor registration and sends follow-up text messages for appreciation and feedback after consultations. Such efforts align with the state’s broader EoDB objectives and demonstrate the practical application of reforms.
Key Outcomes and Next Steps
The training provided a platform for critical discussions and generated actionable insights to improve Edo’s business environment. The Edo State Ease of Doing Business Council emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration between government and private entities, prioritizing support for medium enterprises, and ensuring timely responses to stakeholder needs.
Through this initiative, Edo State is positioning itself as a leader in business reforms, striving to create a robust ecosystem that attracts investments and fosters economic growth.
