Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin has received a delegation of business development partners in African and Switzerland, exploring new areas of sustainable investment opportunities and deepening collaboration in Edo State and Nigeria.
This came to the fore when the Group Managing Director of Arco Group Plc, Alfred Okoigun, introduced John Davenport — President of Sulzer services, Europe, Africa and UK and Henry Craukamp — Head of ‘SSA region’ and Managing Director, Sulzer Pumps in South Africa, to the Oba Palace in Benin City, Edo State.
Welcoming the delegation to his palace, Oba Ewuare, acknowledged the long-standing commitment to excellence, which has consistently helped in boosting Nigeria’s GDP and repositioning oil and gas sector development.
He underscores the importance of developing strategic business plans in navigating complex economic challenges that test boundaries with considerable precision.
Oba Ewuare also commended the leader of the delegation for staying the course, building networks and investing in relationships that lead to opportunities with great determination and unprecedented strength over the past 40 years.
“We pray almighty God and our ancestors that we reap the fruits of our labour. We have been working day and night since last year.
“I know you are a hard worker. I am sure your contribution to Nigeria’s GDP is immense. It must be very significant from what you have been doing. We want to thank you for the vision. And this is the beginning. A new feather in your cap”, Oba Ewuare stated.
In his goodwill message earlier, the Group Managing Director of the Public liability company, Alfred Okoigun said working with the foreign partners, represents a remarkable milestone in local content development in Nigeria.
The managing Director of Arco maintenance and Engineering, Michael Okoigun — the driver of the partnership, accompanied the delegation to the palace during the historic visit.
Osaigbovo Iguobaro,
Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin.
22nd March 2026.
