President Bola Tinubu has appointed Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu as the new Director-General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC). This strategic move is aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s business climate and attracting foreign investments.
The appointment was announced in a memo signed by George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and shared with journalists in Abuja on Monday.
Background of Princess Zahrah Audu
Before her new role, Princess Audu served as the Technical Adviser to the President on Foreign Direct Investment, leveraging her expertise as an entrepreneur and technology expert. Her appointment comes as part of President Tinubu’s broader efforts to empower innovative leaders to improve Nigeria’s economic and business landscape.
She succeeds Jumoke Oduwole, who has been reassigned as the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment following a recent cabinet reshuffle.
Statement Highlights
The statement from the Presidency emphasized the importance of this appointment in driving economic growth:
“In a landmark move poised to bolster Nigeria’s economic growth and business environment, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu as the Director-General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council.
“This strategic appointment underscores President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to empowering visionary leaders and fostering a conducive business ecosystem.
“With her expertise and experience, Princess Zahrah is poised to make a profound impact in her new role, driving transformative change and fostering a more enabling business environment in Nigeria.”
Role and Expectations
As the Director-General of PEBEC, Princess Audu will be tasked with:
- Streamlining regulations to enhance Nigeria’s ease of doing business.
- Promoting policies that attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
- Collaborating with stakeholders to address barriers to business growth and sustainability.
- Implementing initiatives to improve Nigeria’s ranking in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index.
Strategic Importance
This appointment aligns with President Tinubu’s economic agenda, which focuses on:
- Revitalizing Nigeria’s business environment.
- Positioning the country as a preferred destination for international investors.
- Boosting economic diversification and competitiveness.
Princess Zahrah Audu’s entrepreneurial background and prior advisory role on FDI are expected to bring a fresh perspective to PEBEC’s operations, fostering innovation and resilience in Nigeria’s business landscape.
Her leadership is anticipated to play a key role in driving transformative change, ultimately supporting Nigeria’s broader economic goals.
