The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has welcomed a delegation of business development partners from Africa and Switzerland to explore new avenues for sustainable investments and strengthen economic collaboration in Edo State and Nigeria.

The visiting team was introduced at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City by the Group Managing Director of Arco Group Plc, Alfred Okoigun. The delegation included John Davenport, President of Sulzer Services for Europe, Africa and the UK, as well as Henry Craukamp, Head of the Sub-Saharan Africa region and Managing Director of Sulzer Pumps in South Africa.

In his remarks, the monarch commended the visitors for their long-standing dedication to excellence, noting that their contributions have played a vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s economy and advancing the oil and gas sector. He emphasised the need for well-structured business strategies to effectively navigate economic challenges.

Oba Ewuare II also praised the delegation’s leadership for their persistence in building strong networks and fostering partnerships over the past four decades, describing their efforts as a testament to determination and vision.

“We pray that our efforts yield positive results. Your hard work and contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth are commendable. This marks the beginning of even greater achievements,” the Oba stated.

Earlier, Alfred Okoigun described the collaboration with foreign partners as a significant milestone for local content development in Nigeria.

Also present at the palace was the Managing Director of Arco Maintenance and Engineering, Michael Okoigun, who played a key role in facilitating the partnership and accompanied the delegation on the visit.