What kind of assistance can investors expect from the Nigerian Government?
The Nigerian Government has demonstrated its desire to grow the non-oil sector of the economy by introducing various incentives for investors and reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks. Although investors should still expect some red tape there is definitely a political will to increase foreign investment in the country. Generally the Nigerian Government, on federal and state level, will help investors out in the areas of land acquisition, incentives, infrastructure provision and financing. The situation however differs from state to state and investors should go and meet with the local authorities where they want to establish their business. Will I have to fear for my safety in Nigeria? Nigeria’s image as a dangerous and lawless society is vastly exaggerated. I feel much safer in Nigeria than in many other couintries. As is the case with the rest of the world, Nigeria’s metropolitan areas have more problems with crime than the rural areas. Most crime is however purely a result of poverty.
