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NYSE Welcomes Nigerian Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala And Delegation

Date 09/11/2005

A delegation of senior officials from Nigeria led by the Federal Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, today visited the New York Stock Exchange.

The delegation, in the U.S. between Nov. 7-10  to promote business and investment in Nigeria, is meeting with U.S. companies, multi-lateral agencies and media organizations in Washington, D.C. and New York. 

“Nigeria is implementing a set of extensive economic initiatives to drive development and growth,” said Ms. Okonjo-Iweala. “As Nigeria continues to make significant improvements toward creating an ideal investment climate, we are honored to be received by the New York Stock Exchange and recognize this gesture of goodwill and cooperation.”

“We are very pleased to welcome you and your delegation to the New York Stock Exchange,” said NYSE President and Co-COO Catherine R. Kinney. “We congratulate you on your success in implementing significant economic and regulatory reforms in your country.”

Joining Minister Okonjo-Iweala at the NYSE was the CEO of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Mustafa Bello. 

Click here  for photographs of today’s visit.

Nigeria has a population of 137 million and its GPD in 2004 was $72 billion. In 2004, Nigeria’s economy grew at a real 6.1%.. Nigeria is the largest oil producer in Africa and the 7th largest in the world, averaging 2.8 million barrels per day in 2004. Its agriculture industry has been growing at 7% annually, and foreign investors are starting to notice the potential profitability of the Nigerian solid minerals sector.