Rivers People need peace, unity and security to support economic growth and attract investment, Action Democratic Party governorship candidate Angel Lawson has said.
Lawson made the statement while outlining what he described as the conditions needed to drive sustainable development across Rivers State.
He said the state must create a stable environment where businesses can operate, investors can commit funds and residents can pursue economic opportunities without fear.
According to Lawson, conflict, division and insecurity can weaken economic activity and discourage investment. He argued that peace and public safety should therefore remain central to the state’s development plans.
His position also points to wider evidence on investment decisions.
The World Bank’s Global Investment Competitiveness Report found that political stability, security and a predictable legal and regulatory environment are among the leading factors multinational companies consider before investing in developing economies.
The report, based on a survey of hundreds of multinational investors, also found that these factors can matter more to investors than incentives such as low tax rates and labour costs.
For Rivers People, Lawson said the challenge is to build confidence across communities and political divides.
He said that, if elected governor, he would focus on promoting peace, strengthening unity and improving the security of lives and property.
Lawson presented these priorities as foundations for economic expansion. He said a secure environment could help businesses grow, create jobs and expand opportunities for residents.
The candidate also called for greater cooperation among communities across the state.
However, attracting investment requires more than security alone. The World Bank has also highlighted predictable policies, strong institutions and a business-friendly regulatory environment as important elements of investment competitiveness.
Lawson said his broader vision is to build a state where businesses can thrive and residents can access more opportunities.
He ended his message with the slogan: “One Rivers. One People. One Future.”
