Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment Kemela Okara has said the government will double its efforts in rice production to earn foreign exchange for the country.
He spoke during a cocktail in Lagos organised for investors for the First Bayelsa State Economic Forum.
He explained that Bayelsa has the natural topography that is favorable to the production of rice, noting that the country could earn foreign exchange from the mass production of the product.
Okara called on small and medium scale investors to tap into the opportunities at the forum, adding that the state’s virgin land was waiting to be harnessed.
He said: “The investment forum is place for dialogue and intends to provide both private and public organisations the opportunity to see what it can offer to entrepreneurs.
“Bayelsa has the capacity to provide all that will enhance business life for Nigeria. The state is one of the richest states in gas and we have the intention of creating the power hub in the state.
“The commissioner noted that investors should partner with the state government in areas of trade, tourism and agriculture in order to enhance the country’s economic fortunes.”
He said adequate security has been provided for all participants at the three days business dialogue, stressing that the forum is a one stop shop for those who want to learn new skills on productivity and capacity building.
