The Mayor of Housing, My-ACE China, has identified two critical measures he believes Rivers State can quickly implement to fast-track its economy and position it to compete effectively with Lagos.
China, who commended the Rivers State Government for improving the ease of doing business following the 2024 Economic Summit, called for the establishment of a Security Fund to tackle insecurity and a Publicity Fund to promote the state as an attractive investment destination. He said the funds should be jointly supported by the government and private sector leaders.
According to him, a dedicated security funding mechanism would strengthen safety across the state, while a world-class publicity and information strategy would help project Rivers State’s economic zones to both local and international investors.
The real estate expert explained that his continuous advocacy for the housing sector stems from his role as the “Mayor of Housing,” noting that his focus is to promote, defend, and sanitize the housing industry along professional lines.
The Chief Executive Officer of Housing and Construction Mayor Limited, developers of the proposed Alesa Highlands Sustainable Green Smart City, said when he relocated from Abuja to Port Harcourt, he met a city rich in opportunities but lacking exposure. He described Rivers State as “a green state ready to be exposed,” stressing the need to aggressively market its economic potential.
He argued that it was counter-productive for oil and gas workers to reside in Lagos while working in Rivers State, adding that increased residency in the state would boost housing demand and drive real estate growth.
China also described the Rivers State Government as a listening administration, praising the governor for organizing the first-ever Rivers State Economic Summit in 2024 and for establishing the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency (RSIPA). He said the agency has created a one-stop shop that simplifies processes for businesses and investors.
He further renewed his call on Rivers, Abia, and Akwa Ibom states to consider forming an “Economic Triangle”, which he said could eventually surpass the Lagos economic zone by linking directly to the Gulf of Guinea economic corridor.
According to him, the proposed corridor would thrive with investments in gas-powered energy systems, maritime free zones, industrial hubs, and strong incentives to enhance ease of doing business.
