…As NUJ pledges partnership to boost investors’ confidence
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — President of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, PHCCIMA, Dr. Chinyere Nwoga, has called on journalists in Rivers State to actively change the investment narrative around the state by promoting the reality of its economic opportunities and security, rather than the persistent negative perceptions that discourage investors.
The PHCCIMA boss made the call in Port Harcourt during a courtesy visit by the newly elected executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Rivers State Council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Paul Bazia.
Nwoga, who made history as the first female president of PHCCIMA since its founding in 1957, emphasized that the chamber is committed to championing the private sector by creating an enabling environment for commerce to thrive.
She highlighted integrity, accountability, and effective leadership as her guiding principles
“Journalists play a critical role in attracting or driving away investors. If you continue to tell the world there’s a war in Port Harcourt, businesses won’t come. We need to shift the narrative from perception to reality. The truth is, this city is safe, development-focused and ripe for business.
“Port Harcourt is a massive investment destination. The Chamber ranks second in Nigeria, just after Lagos. If people are better informed about what we do, more investors will come,” she said.
She further announced that the Chamber is involved in collaborations with foreign embassies, noting that such relationships ease visa processes and promote cross-border trade. “We also support SMEs and start-ups with mentorship, incubation, and training because when they grow, the chamber grows,” she added.
On gender and youth inclusion, Dr. Nwoga introduced the Chamber’s Women’s Wing and Young Directors Chapter, platforms she said are dedicated to inspiring and empowering women and youth through funding access, capacity building, and strategic networking.
She also identified tourism as a key growth area. “Mr. Chairman, you mentioned tourism. We’ll introduce you to the President of Beach Harcourt Club. He is doing a great job, but remains underreported. That’s where the NUJ can come in — to amplify what’s working.”
Earlier, Rivers NUJ Chairman, Comrade Paul Bazia pledged the union’s full support to PHCCIMA’s mission. He said the visit was to congratulate Dr. Nwoga on her groundbreaking election and to explore areas of mutual collaboration.
“Our campaign promise was to change the narrative of the NUJ in Rivers State. We want to focus on developmental journalism — with a spotlight on tourism and agriculture,” Bazia said.
He cited the 20-kilometre stretch of white sand beaches between Ngo and Oyorokoto in Andoni Local Government Area as one of the state’s untapped tourism goldmines, while also stressing the vast agricultural potential of the state’s arable lands.
“As a non-profit organisation, what we have is goodwill in media publicity. You can use our Press Centre and platforms free of charge to speak to your target audience,” Bazia assured.
Nwoga expressed optimism about the partnership. “With the NUJ on board, people will better understand what PHCCIMA stands for. I have great respect for journalists. Unfortunately, society doesn’t appreciate you enough, but I do,” he said.
