Louise McKinlay sets out ambition to attract international investment, create local jobs and position Greater Essex as a gateway for global trade.
Last week Virginia. This week Nigeria.
“For Greater Essex, the opportunity to build stronger international relationships and unlock new markets is significant — and growth must be the priority.
“It was a privilege to speak at Beyond London: Unlock Global Growth Opportunities in Greater Essex, an event focused on turning international ambition into real economic opportunities for businesses and communities across Essex.”
The event brought together UK and Nigerian business leaders, alongside representatives from the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce and ETK Group, to explore how Greater Essex can strengthen its international connections, attract investment and help local businesses access rapidly growing overseas markets.
Putting Greater Essex on the global map
International partnerships are not simply about raising Essex’s profile. They should deliver tangible benefits for people and businesses here at home.
That means bringing new investment into Essex, creating jobs for local people and giving Essex businesses the connections and confidence they need to expand into international markets such as Nigeria.
With senior business leaders in attendance, including Prince Abimbola Olashore, the message from the event was clear: Essex is open for business.
“My thanks go to Bolaji Sofoluwe for bringing together people who share an ambition to turn international relationships into genuine commercial opportunities.”
A gateway for global trade
As a candidate for Mayor of Greater Essex, my approach is clear: if elected, I will work to build strategic partnerships, attract new investment and position Greater Essex as a gateway for global trade.
Essex has the businesses, skills, infrastructure and entrepreneurial ambition to compete internationally. The task now is to make sure we build the relationships that allow those strengths to translate into investment and opportunity.
Growth is not an abstract economic target. Done properly, it means better jobs, stronger businesses, more resilient communities and greater prosperity across Greater Essex.
The opportunity is there. Greater Essex should be ambitious enough to seize it.