By Chinenye Ofor/Maureen Okon

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Abbas Tajudeen, has described Nigeria as one of the most attractive and lucrative investment frontiers in Africa.

Abbas made this known on Wednesday in Abuja at the maiden edition of the Nigeria-Italy Investment Summit 2025 (NIIS 2025), themed “Building Bridges: Unlocking Opportunities.”

The summit, organised by Giant Gee Nigeria Limited and partners in collaboration with the Italian Embassy, aims to strengthen bilateral investment and trade ties.

Represented by Mr Afuope Afolabi, Chairman of the Nigeria-Italy Parliamentary Friendship Group, Abbas said Nigeria’s large population and economic potential made it a prime destination for global investors.

According to him, Nigeria-Italy relations have evolved into a dynamic partnership driven by trade, investment, and high-level political consultations.

“Italian enterprises have found fertile ground in Nigeria, and we in turn have benefited from these investments, which have strengthened key sectors of our economy,” he said.

He highlighted investment opportunities in agriculture, agro-processing, dairy farming, energy, oil and gas, and solid minerals.

“This summit should serve as a springboard for both nations to reimagine bilateral economic cooperation,” Abbas added.

Deputy Speaker of the House, Benjamin Kalu, represented by Rep. Uchenna Okonkwo, noted that Nigeria, with its population of more than 220 million and vast human and natural resources, remained Africa’s largest economy.

He said Italy, the world’s eighth-largest economy, brought industrial sophistication and innovation to the table.

“These are two nations with immense potential. This summit is not just about investment; it’s about aligning values and mutual economic ambition,” Kalu said.

He emphasised the strategic importance of trust and collaboration, calling the summit a “blueprint for a bridge built not of bricks but of trust.”

Mr Iacopo Foti, Deputy Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, called the summit a celebration of shared values and a joint commitment to sustainable development.

He lauded Nigeria’s dynamic population and growing domestic market, stating, “Italy’s cultural heritage and technological expertise make it a natural partner for Nigeria.”

Foti noted that Italy had long contributed to Nigeria’s development, particularly in energy, construction, and infrastructure.

“Italy is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, technological expertise, and strong tradition of entrepreneurship.

“Both countries have unique opportunities to harness their strengths and foster partnerships that will benefit them mutually.

“Italy has contributed to Nigeria’s economic development in various sectors, including energy, construction, and infrastructure, since Nigeria gained independence.

“In 2024, trade relations between both countries reached approximately 2.5 billion euros. In spite of the significance of this figure, there is still a need for initiatives like this summit to further promote business and investment.

“I am convinced that we will engage in insightful discussions, explore potential investment opportunities, and share best practices.

“I also believe that paving the way for meaningful investments has the power to transform our economies and improve the lives of our people,” he said.

He expressed confidence that discussions from the summit would lead to meaningful investments that could transform both economies and improve lives. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru