Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Rivers State, Ambassador Desmond Akawor has charged the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, PHACCIMA, to rise up to the responsibility of advising government on effective policies for business development in the state.
Akawor gave the charge at the official commissioning of an office space donated to PHACCIMA by the Rivers State government in Port Harcourt.
The PDP chairman who is also Sole Administrator of Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority said PHACCIMA which comprises the business community in the state should also tell the government the pulse of the business community concerning government decisions.
“What is happening here today is a welcome development to our people that PHACCIMA is alive again.
“It’s important that the chamber of commerce advises the government as well and tell government the pulse of businessmen as far as government activities are concern,” he stated.
Akawor stated that there are great business opportunities in the state and urged the chamber to wake up and harness them.
“In our state today, the opportunities are enormous and I still believe that we can gain more grounds.
“Chamber of commerce should wake up and make those in government do what they need to do for activities to pick up. I want to charge all us, let us see our chamber of commerce grow to that level,” Akawor said.
On his part, President of PHACCIMA, Sir Mike Elechi said the donation of the office space to the chamber was an indication that the government is interested in the development of business community in the state.
“This symbolic gesture underscores the collaborative spirit between the public and private sector in fostering an environment where commerce and community development can thrive.
“This house is a testament to the commitment of our governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara to support and strengthen business community in the state,” Elechi said.
The PHACCIMA president said the office will be a hub for ideas that would bring about partnership for business growth in the state.
“This edifice provides a physical space where ideas can flourish, partnership can be forged and seeds of economic progress can be sowed.
“As we embark on this new chapter from today, let us remember that this space is not just for PHACCIMA alone but for the entire business community. It is a hub where innovations meets opportunities and where collaboration can lead to prosperity,” he stated.
Also speaking, Mr Maurice Ogolo, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Agriculture said government is happy that the business community has been brought under one roof for effective operation.
He urged them to take advantage of the opportunity provided to do business in the state.
