FIC Report (Benue State) – The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) has continued to drive reforms to eliminate constraints in the business environment for micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs), this brings growth, also attract investors and enhances the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in Benue State.
PEBEC-NEC EoDB intervention would deepen subnational business-enabling reforms through State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) program incentives, using results-based financing targeted at improving the business environment.
Through its various initiatives, PEBEC has created a conducive business environment, fostered collaboration and promoted investment. One notable example is the establishment of Benue State Investment Promotion Agency (BENIPA) in Benue State, which demonstrates the council’s efforts to attract investors and promote economic development.
The synergy between PEBEC and Benue State Government has practically improved the Ease of Doing Business in Benue State following the implementation of some specific reforms.
These Specific Reforms include: –
a. The Ministry has created a Website/Registration portal for obtaining Certificate of Business Premises or permit in the state, to enable business owners register and print their certificate online anywhere they are without coming to the Ministry. The essence is for the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in the State. The website/registration portal can be easily accessed as be-mti.com.ng.
b. Fees/rates, the Business owners will have to pay through BIRS and access his or her certificate of Business Premises Permit. These are also uploaded on the portal for each category of business you intend to register for ease of doing business in the state.
c. Creation of Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) or Conflict Resolution unit. This is a new Unit created in the Department of Commerce with the aid of SABER/PEBEC Programme to enable users/Traders to channel their complains to the Ministry and seek redress when they perceive a negative impact arising from Ministry services. This is also a way to mitigate, manage, and resolve potential or realize negative impact submitted by stakeholders or Business owners, alsohotline is in place to address complaints and provide redress.
d. Creation of Public Private Partnership (PPP) Unit in the State
e. Creation of Benue State Investment Promotion Agency in the state
f. The State is investing in improved infrastructure, including road construction, solar- powered streetlights and strategic partnership for power supply.
g. Benue State Government is working to increase access to credit through initiatives like of Benue State Investment Promotion Agency (BENIPA) in partnership with financial institutions to incentivize business in the state.
h. Benue State has launched digital program to train young people in digital skills, fostering a more technological advanced workforce.
i. Business – Enabling Reform Action Plans (BERAP): Benue State Government has implemented BERAP, outlining key reforms, initiatives and policies to bring about Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in the State.
In conclusion, PEBEC’s efforts to streamline business processes, enhance transparency, and foster economic growth have a positive impact on the business environment in Benue State, contributing to a more favorable and sustainable economy for businesses and residents.
Signed
Azemba Veronica
Information Officer, /PR
Makurdi Benue State.
22.05.2025
