THE Edo State Government is seeking investors to its petrochemical sector, power generation, polythene bags, agro-processing, tourism and solid minerals.As part of its effort to achieve this, the state made its presence known at the Lagos International Trade Fair.According to the state's Investment Guide made available to The Guardian by an official from the state, the desire to open up the investment frontiers in Edo State has been one of the key goals of the current dispensation.It stated that the state was blessed with rich cultural heritage, abundant manpower, mineral and material resources. 'The abundant natural raw material resources in the state, favourable for the development of agro-allied, construction and other industrial complexes make the state a centre for a viable investment opportunities, both for large, medium and small-scale industries,' it added.Dwelling on investment opportunities, it stated that the state had the largest potential for gas production in the country, adding that oil drilling undertaken in Edo State produces 70 per cent of gas and 30 per cent of crude oil.It stated: 'With the increasing call for a stop to gas flaring and population of gas usage, there is an obvious opportunity to invest in the development of the gas sub-sector in Edo State. Such investment can include distribution of gas for industrial and domestic household consumption. Utilisation of gas for the production of urea, which is a core material for fertiliser and utilisation of gas for the generation of electricity.'It noted that with the current growth and subsequent increase in demand for infrastructure and services, the generation of power through the installation of Independent Power Plant was encouraged.It added that the linkages effects of industries had made polythene bags and sack projects imperative, as they required by existing industries in the state.'Industries such as feed and flour mills at Ewu, solid mineral processing plant at Ikpeshi, have relied on the few industries in the country for its packaging needs. This is certainly an opportunity for investors to harness,' it added.On agriculture opportunities, it stated: 'Edo State is largely an agrarian state with many agricultural crops such as cassava, citrus fruits, maize, yam, tomatoes, pepper, melon, pineapple, banana in commercial quantities. Also, the state has abundant timber resources.'In recognition of the promising prospects of the tourism industry, which will be closely supported by the rich cultural heritage of the state, the Edo State government invites the private sector participation in the development of the development of five-star hotels, restaurants, casinos and eateries, holiday resorts, amusement parks and other tourism development areas.
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