By Samuel Olusegun Precious
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called for stronger trade and investment relations between Rivers State and Norway, with emphasis on oil and gas, health, education and other areas of mutual interest.
Governor Fubara made the call during a meeting with the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Svein Bæra, at Government House, Port Harcourt, on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
The Governor was represented by his Deputy, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu.
Governor Fubara said the longstanding stockfish trade between Norway and Nigeria, which has existed for almost 100 years, could serve as an entry point for broader economic cooperation.
According to him, “That could be an entry point into us collaborating in other aspects of international trade.”
He described trade as a relationship based on mutual benefit, noting that the stockfish trade has continued to gain momentum over the decades.
Rivers Ready For Norwegian Investment
The Governor said Rivers State, as the hub of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, is well positioned to explore collaboration with Norwegian businesses, particularly in the development of downstream products for international markets.
He also identified education and healthcare as other viable areas for partnership.He said the State has an agency responsible for investment and collaboration which will engage the Norwegian Embassy on possible areas of cooperation.Governor Fubara further suggested that the Norwegian delegation interface with the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce and other relevant business associations to exchange views on existing opportunities and future prospects.
He welcomed Ambassador Bæra on behalf of the Government and people of Rivers State, expressing optimism that the visit would open a new chapter in the relationship between Norway and Rivers State.
Envoy Seeks Deeper Economic Ties
In his remarks, the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Svein Bæra, said the delegation was in Rivers State to explore trade and investment opportunities, particularly in the stockfish and oil and gas sectors.He said the visit would also provide an opportunity to engage stockfish importers based in the State, with a view to deepening the relationship between Norway and Rivers State.
According to him, discussions with key stakeholders would help identify areas of mutual economic interest and strengthen existing trade ties.Present at the meeting were top government functionaries, officials of the Rivers State Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and members of the Norwegian delegation.
