Funmilayo Omowumi Loremikan FCILT

US: UPDATE ON MISSION NIGERIA VISA - Services Provider The United States Embassy in Nigeria has acknowledged the difficulties faced by Nigerian visa applicants due to the introduction of its new system. In a statement posted on its website on October 9, 2024, the embassy noted, "We are aware of the challenges many visa applicants are encountering as we implement the new system. While many of these issues have been resolved, the embassy is working diligently to address the remaining challenges as quickly as possible. "We regret the frustration and inconvenience experienced by our visa applicants during this transition and expect that all applicants will soon benefit from improved processing." The embassy emphasized that the consular sections in both Abuja and Lagos remain committed to providing high-quality customer service and are continuing to offer the full range of services while resolving the current difficulties. NOTE: On August 26, 2024, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria transitioned to a new visa appointment system, making Nigeria one of the first countries to adopt the system. The goal is to streamline the visa appointment process and enhance transparency for Nigerian applicants. However, the rollout has faced challenges, with many applicants reporting delays in securing appointments and processing applications. Source: https://lnkd.in/drfTyiiW

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" The launch of the 7th Edition of the Nigerian Logistics and Supply Chain Industry Report was a resounding success! � Thank you to all who attended and made this event memorable. � Don't miss out on the valuable insights and trends shaping our industry—get your copy of the latest report today! #Logistics #SupplyChain #IndustryReport #JoinUs #NigerianLogistics #PharmaceuticalLogistics #SupplyChainManagement #IndustryReport #EventSuccess

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Are you interested in gaining insights into the Nigerian commodity export market and how to navigate the logistics for international trade? If yes, join our Commercial Manager, Export Market, Chukwuemeka Akubueze, and other seasoned experts at the Commodity Webinar on 'Understanding the Complexities of the Nigerian Commodity Export Market.’ Date: Thursday 27th June 2024 Time: 10:00 am Venue: Zoom This webinar is your one-stop shop for taking your agricultural business global. Click on the link below to save your seat for this insightful session. http://bit.ly/agroexport Vestance #commodities #agroexport #AFEX

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Dear young people, I was reading a book (The diary of a CEO, The 33 laws of business and life By Steven Bartlett) and I find a section very educative and life changing. The section contains a formula that in my opinion and that of the author, if applied correctly will create a lasting impact in our lives and that of others through us. The writer mentioned five (5) things that we should strive to acquire sequentially, that is from A to B, and then to C, then D and E. The writer mentioned that the first one is to acquire knowledge, followed by skills, followed by network, followed by resources and finally reputation. In his own words, he said "We usually start our professional life acquiring knowledge (school, university, etc.), and when this knowledge is applied, we call it a skill. When you have knowledge and skills you become professionally valuable to others and your network grows. Consequently, when you have knowledge, skills and a network, your access to resources expands, and once you have knowledge, skills, a valuable network and resources, you will undoubtedly earn a reputation." With the interconnected relationship among these five (5) things, it’s clear that an investment in knowledge is the high-yielding investment you can make. Because when that knowledge is applied (skill), you will inevitably acquire the remaining three (network, resources, reputation). Applied knowledge is skill, and the more you can expand and apply your knowledge, the more value you’ll create in the world. This value will be repaid in a growing network, abundant resources and a robust reputation. I just enjoyed this section of the book, and thought I should share it so that someone somewhere, even if it is 1 person can also benefit as I do. Thank you Umar Abdullahi for sharing the soft copy of the book with me. Your's sincerely, Suleiman Bello Lifelong Learner.

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when you're a strong thinker that makes you a very good architect.

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Thought Leadership in Action: A Journey of Strategic Solutions and Human-Centered Leadership During my time managing MDS Operations in Ilorin as a Customer Service Manager (CSM), I encountered a significant challenge. A popular company kept sending multiple trucks to our depot, but our limited space made it difficult to accommodate them all. Worse, many of the truck drivers, despite having a designated area, were defecating all over the depot. This compromised both the hygiene and security of the location, creating an urgent need for a solution. As a leader, I knew that this issue could not be resolved through complaints or inaction. I had to find a way to motivate my team while maintaining operational efficiency and protecting the depot’s reputation. I devised a strategy to inspire the gang laborers to work beyond regular hours, often staying until 10:00 PM or even 11:00 PM. This enabled us to unload and dispatch trucks on the same day they arrived, ensuring quicker turnaround times. What began as a small adjustment soon evolved into a significant operational advantage. In a bid to motivate the workers, I often dipped into my pocket to provide incentives. Though officially we were to close at 5:00 PM, I believed in going beyond the norm to achieve better results. This personal investment created a positive ripple effect—drivers began lobbying to be assigned to our depot, knowing they would be offloaded swiftly and return to Lagos the same day. This improved driver turnaround led to increased tonnage, and as a result, my depot won the award for best depot performance three years in a row. The Impact of Compassionate Leadership Beyond operational efficiency, true leadership extends to the care and well-being of your team, regardless of their employment status. I remember being informed about one of our longest-serving gang laborers who had fallen gravely ill. His family was deeply concerned, fearing the worst. Unfortunately, the laborers were not permanent employees, so our organization did not offer any formal welfare support. This presented an ethical and personal challenge. Instead of waiting for a solution, I quickly handed over my responsibilities to my deputy, took personal charge of the situation, and drove the laborer, his son, and his wife to their hometown of Ede in Osun State—over 117 kilometers from Ilorin. A week later, the man passed away. While the outcome was tragic, I found personal fulfillment in knowing that I made a humane decision at a critical time. By acting swiftly, I helped the family avoid the additional financial burden of funeral expenses like securing a casket and an ambulance for transportation. #30DaysofLinkedinChallengeWithBukolaDigital @bukolaayeni

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What is visibility and personal branding? Visibility is the extent to which an individual or their content is seen and recognized by others, typically in a professional or public context. Personal branding, on the other hand, is the intentional effort to create a unique and memorable image or reputation for oneself. It involves shaping how you're perceived by showcasing your skills, values, and personality, often through online and offline presence, such as social media, networking, and personal style. To become visible and overcome career stagnation, consider these strategies: 🔶Produce High-Quality Work: Consistently deliver exceptional work that stands out. Quality work gets noticed and forms the foundation of your visibility. 🔶Seek Challenging Projects: Volunteer for projects that align with your skills and interests, even if they're outside your usual scope. This demonstrates your willingness to take on new challenges. 🔶Share Your Expertise: Write articles, give presentations, or participate in webinars related to your field. Sharing your knowledge establishes you as an authority and increases your visibility. 🔶Engage in Networking: Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars. Networking helps you connect with professionals, exchange ideas, and expand your circle of influence. 🔶Utilize Social Media: Maintain a professional presence on platforms like LinkedIn. Share industry insights, accomplishments, and engage with others' content. 🔶Mentorship and Collaboration: Mentor colleagues and collaborate on projects. Building relationships can lead to more opportunities and increased visibility. 🔶Initiative and Innovation: Propose new ideas, processes, or improvements within your organization. Initiative and innovation demonstrate your dedication and value. 🔶Communicate Your Goals: Have conversations with your superiors about your career aspirations. This shows your commitment to growth and advancement. 🔶Participate in Professional Organizations: Join relevant industry associations and actively participate in their events and discussions. 🔶Show Enthusiasm: Display enthusiasm for your work and the success of your team. Positive energy is infectious and can draw attention to your contributions. 🔶Seek Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from mentors, supervisors, and colleagues to improve and showcase your dedication to growth. 🔶Visibility Across Hierarchies: Interact with colleagues at different levels, not just within your immediate team. Establishing a broad network enhances your visibility. Remember that consistency is key. Building visibility takes time, so be patient and continue to add value to your organization and industry. Download my free ebook 'Rising Above Career Stagnation' now order my ebook 'How to Get Out of Career Stagnation' with the link 👇 https://lnkd.in/d5aM35w7 #visibility #personalbranding #retirementplanning #careeropportunities #retireesorsoontoberetirees

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The Hidden Costs of Inefficient Logistics in Nigeria. Are you a business owner in Nigeria struggling with: - Delays in cargo delivery? - High logistics costs eating into your profit margins? - Lack of visibility and control over your supply chain? - Inefficient use of resources and manpower? You're not alone! In Nigeria, the logistics industry is plagued by inefficiencies, resulting in: - 30% of cargo being delayed or lost in transit - 25% of logistics costs being wasted on unnecessary expenses - 90% of businesses lacking real-time visibility over their supply chain At LogiTrak, we understand the frustration and financial burden caused by these inefficiencies. That's why we've developed a cutting-edge logistics platform that leverages technology and conventional assets to provide: - Real-time tracking and monitoring - Automated dispatch and routing - Digital payment and invoicing - Data analytics for optimized logistics Join us in revolutionizing the way you move your cargo. Say goodbye to logistics headaches and hello to increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction. Get started now on www.logitrak.africa #LogiTrak #Logistics #Nigeria #Inefficiency #Solutions #Innovation #SupplyChain #Cargo #Delivery #Business #Growth #Africa #AfCFTA

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Tips to help you improve your emotional intelligence: 🔶Practice Self-Awareness: Regularly reflect on your emotions and how they influence your thoughts and actions. Journaling can be a helpful tool for this. 🔶Manage Your Emotions: Learn techniques to regulate your emotions, such as deep breathing, meditation, or taking a pause before reacting. 🔶Enhance Empathy: Make a conscious effort to understand others' perspectives and feelings. Active listening and asking open-ended questions can help. 🔶Improve Social Skills: Work on your communication skills by being clear, respectful, and assertive. Building strong relationships is key. 🔶Stay Motivated: Set personal goals and find intrinsic motivation to achieve them. Celebrate small victories to keep your spirits high. 🔶Seek Feedback: Ask for feedback from trusted friends or colleagues to gain insights into your emotional interactions and areas for improvement. 🔶Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices to stay present and aware of your emotions and surroundings. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can gradually enhance your emotional intelligence and improve your interactions both personally and professionally. It's Time. You are all invited to the LinkedIn Audio Room where I would be hosted as the EQ Personality of the Month by Olatunji B. Alonge Please join us now live!! https://lnkd.in/dWAindDV #emotionalintelligence #emotionalquotient #selfawareness #selfmanagement #motivation #empathy #socialskills #CareerConversations #ThoughtLeadership #personality #personalbranding #visibility #retirementguidance

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FROM WAREHOUSE TO THE SHELVE! By Abuja Stock-takers A STOCK COUNT , SHELVING AND PRICING JOB FOR A SUPERMARKET IN KATAMPE ABUJA. ___________ A 13 room (with sub rooms) Warehouse duplex filled with goods was SORTED, ARRANGED/CATEGORIZED , COUNTED, RECOUNTED, RECORDED , SHELVED , PRICED AND STAFF - TRAINED BY ABUJA STOCK TAKERS ! ————- THIS IS HOW WE CAN HELP YOUR PRODUCT BUSINESS 1. STOCK COUNT - Accurate Inventory Levels: It helps verify the actual stock on hand versus the recorded stock, reducing discrepancies. Fraud Prevention: Regular stock taking helps detect theft, damage, or misplacement of goods. Reorder Planning: It ensures that businesses know when to reorder stock, preventing stockouts or overstocking. Financial Reporting Accuracy: It ensures accurate reporting for financial statements, which is important for tax compliance and understanding cost of goods sold (COGS). 2. DATA ENTRY Record Accuracy: Entering correct product quantities, prices, and details ensures that the system reflects the real-time inventory status. Efficient Tracking: It enables the tracking of sales, purchases, and returns, contributing to better decision-making. Minimizing Errors: Automating data entry helps reduce human errors, which can lead to costly mistakes, such as wrong stock counts or incorrect pricing . 3. INVENTORY MANAGEMENT Optimized Stock Levels: It helps maintain the right amount of stock to meet customer demand without over-investing in inventory. Cost Control: Proper inventory management reduces storage costs, spoilage, and wastage by ensuring efficient turnover of stock. Sales Forecasting: Analyzing inventory trends helps businesses predict future sales and adjust stock levels accordingly. Customer Satisfaction: Having the right products available when needed improves customer experience and reduces the risk of losing sales due to stockouts. Supplier Relationships: Efficient inventory management strengthens supplier relations by enabling timely and accurate orders. HOW THESE FUNCTIONS WORK TOGETHER ; STOCK TAKING: ensures that the physical inventory count matches data in the system. DATA ENTRY: ensures that all stock movements (sales, purchases, etc.) are recorded correctly, feeding into inventory management systems. INVENTORY MANAGEMENT: uses this data to forecast demand, control stock levels, and optimize operations, leading to cost savings and better decision-making. In combination, these processes ensure a streamlined supply chain, improved cash flow, and enhanced customer service, making the business more competitive and profitable. —————— THIS IS WHAT WE DO FOR PRODUCT BUSINESSES - Focus on your business while we do the numbers.. Call us now!: 09131058022 , 0706 9746606 #Abujastocktakers #Stocktakersinabuja #inventorymanagers #abujabusinesses #Productbusiness #retailstores #Warehousingandlogisticsbusinesses #supermarkets #distributioncentres #manufacturingcompanies #hospitalityandrestaurants #explorepages

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In today's world, uncertainty has become the new normal. As career and business professionals in emerging markets such as Nigeria, we are faced with unique challenges that require us to be more resilient, adaptable, and innovative than ever before. The ability to thrive in such times is not just about survival; it's about leveraging these challenges to propel ourselves and our organizations forward. To help you navigate through this season of uncertainty, here are some essential do's and don'ts: Do's: 1. Adapt Quickly: Embrace change and be flexible in your approach. The faster you adapt, the quicker you can find new opportunities. 2. Continuous Learning: Invest in upskilling and staying updated with industry trends. Knowledge is power, and the more you know, the better equipped you are to handle changes. 3. Network Actively: Build and maintain strong professional connections. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and provide support during challenging times. 4. Innovate: Seek new ways to add value and improve processes. Innovation can set you apart and make you indispensable. 5. Stay Positive: Maintain a resilient and optimistic mindset. Positivity can boost your morale and inspire those around you. Don'ts: 1. Avoid Complacency: Don’t stick to old methods that no longer work. Complacency can hinder your growth and leave you behind. 2. Ignore Self-Care: Don’t neglect your physical and mental well-being. Taking care of yourself ensures you have the energy and focus to thrive. 3. Fear Failure: Don’t let the fear of failure prevent you from taking calculated risks. Failure is often a stepping stone to success. 4. Isolate Yourself: Don’t underestimate the power of a supportive community. Isolation can lead to missed opportunities and a lack of support. 5. Overcommit: Don’t spread yourself too thin; prioritize your tasks. Overcommitting can lead to burnout and reduced effectiveness. By embracing these strategies, you can navigate through uncertainty with confidence and turn challenges into opportunities for growth and success. #CareerGrowth #BusinessLeadership #Resilience #Innovation #NigeriaProfessionals

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As Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola marks his one-year anniversary as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, the maritime industry in Nigeria has mixed feelings. Many stakeholders express concerns about the slow pace of progress, pointing to missed opportunities and unfulfilled promises. Initially, there was high hope that Oyetola's track record as a former governor would bring transformative changes to the maritime and blue economy sectors. However, a year in, industry leaders like Prince Ayorinde Adedoyin and Otunba Sola Olatunji note that while the minister has a commendable vision, challenges like inadequate funding and bureaucratic hurdles have hampered significant progress. On the other hand, some, like Capt. Tajudeen Alao and Mr. Emenike Nwokeoji, urge patience. They emphasize that building a new ministry from scratch is no small feat and that the groundwork laid in the first year will pave the way for future success. The hope is that with more time and clearer policy directions, the ministry will unlock Nigeria’s vast blue economy potential. The sentiment is clear—while the first year has been challenging, there is cautious optimism that the coming years will bring the changes the industry desperately needs. #MaritimeNigeria #BlueEconomy #MarineEconomy #ShippingIndustry #StakeholderVoices #NigerianEconomy

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**VFS Global Issues Warning to Nigerian Nationals Regarding Fraudulent Visa Appointment Practices** In light of rising demand for visa application appointments, VFS Global is urging Nigerian nationals to be cautious of scammers posing as employees or agents of the organization, offering early appointments in exchange for additional fees. These fraudulent intermediaries aim to exploit innocent visa applicants by falsely promising expedited services. Visa appointments are free and can only be scheduled via the official VFS Global website, www.vfsglobal.com. The organization advises applicants to be vigilant and avoid any unauthorized agents making such promises. With outbound travel from Nigeria having surged to pre-pandemic levels since 2022, and applications continuing to increase in 2024, the number of visa applications processed through VFS Global is already at 60% of last year's figures. Popular destinations include Canada, China, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia. This spike in demand has given rise to a higher occurrence of fraudulent schemes targeting visa applicants. Alok Singhal, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa for VFS Global, emphasized the importance of only using the official channels for appointment bookings. He stated, “Applicants should be aware that appointment slots are scheduled based on demand and the consulate's capacity. We strongly caution against engaging with agents who claim they can secure earlier slots for payment.” In response to these scams, VFS Global has implemented several security measures: - Only applicants with valid appointments will be allowed entry into the VFS Global Centre. - A Facial Recognition system has been introduced for booking appointments with select embassies, starting with Portugal. - A Visa Application Form Validation System now links form reference numbers with appointment booking references for Denmark applications. - An OTP code is required to book appointments for Canada, further reducing agent intervention. - Anti-fraud messages have been prominently displayed across social media platforms, call centers, and appointment letters. Applicants are encouraged to report suspicious activity to VFS Global by emailing [email protected]. To accommodate the increased volume of applications, VFS Global has extended operational hours and introduced dedicated passport submission and collection times. They have also expanded waiting areas for applicants. Regarding refunds, VFS Global offers reimbursement for overpayments related to service fees or optional value-added services, provided applicants file a claim within 30 days of appointment cancellation. VFS Global has operated in Nigeria since 2007, and currently serves 16 governments, including Canada, China, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia, through a dedicated workforce of over 200 Nigerian employees. #visa #mobility #visaappointment #Immigration #alert

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Yesterday was a rather chaotic day, if you live in Lagos, then you will know exactly what I am talking about. At about 6.45am, my very reliable and dependable driver called to tell me how the heavy rainfall has made it difficult for him to get a bus and so we agreed to meet up instead of him coming down all the way to my house. With that, I began to prepare for work. At about 7.15am, he called again, but now to inform me that the road was blocked and the traffic was a standstill . Because I had made up my mind, I insisted we were going to the office. I've lived on the Mainland for the past 12 years and I know the rain doesn't affect us that much. Oh boy was I wrong. We finally hit the road and by the time I saw the chaos with my eyes, it just didn't make sense to continue and so I had to go back home. It was later in the day that I realized the learnings from this situation. Isn't it funny how many business leaders and executives stay in their cozy office making decisions and ignoring the voice of the guys on the field and on the shop floor. The world keeps changing so rapidly that what you think you know may just be obsolete. As HR leaders and business executives interested in Organizational transformation, we must be willing to take feedback from the people and work on the feedback in order to stay competitive in the Marketplace. #Organisationaltransformation #Employeeengagement #mindshift

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What Direction Should Your Business Take? Let's Navigate Together! As a consignee at a container terminal, you face unique challenges and opportunities. Deciding the right direction for your business can significantly impact your logistics efficiency and overall success. Here’s how partnering with Lekki Freeport Terminal can steer your business toward excellence: From our advanced automated processes, which ensure quick and accurate handling of your cargo, reducing delays and boosting productivity, to reefer services and efficient container management, we provide a full range of logistics solutions tailored to your needs. Say goodbye to bottlenecks and delays. Lekki Freeport Terminal is renowned for its smooth traffic management, ensuring your cargo moves swiftly. Stay ahead of the competition with our cutting-edge technology, which enhances efficiency and reliability in every operation. Lekki Freeport Terminal is committed to safety and precision. We handle your cargo with the utmost care, ensuring it reaches its destination on time and intact. Choosing the right direction for your business starts with selecting a reliable partner. Let Lekki Freeport Terminal be that partner and help you navigate the complexities of port logistics with ease and efficiency. #BusinessDirection #Logistics #PortOperations #Efficiency #Innovation #NoCongestion #ReeferServices #LekkiFreeportTerminal #SupplyChainExcellence

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Happy New Month, everyone! May is here, a fresh start to a new chapter. As we embark on this new month, I want to encourage you to keep pushing towards your goals. There will be challenges and setbacks along the way, but with dedication and perseverance, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. ✨ Here are a few tips to stay motivated: 📍 Break down your goals into smaller, achievable steps. This will make them seem less daunting and help you stay on track. 📍Find an accountability partner. Share your goals with someone you trust and who will support you along the way. 📍Celebrate your successes, big and small. Taking the time to acknowledge your accomplishments will help you stay motivated. Let's make May a productive and successful month! #HappyNewMonth #May #Goals #Motivation #Perseverance #Achievement #LinkedIn #ProfessionalDevelopment

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has acknowledged a significant debt to fuel importers, putting immense pressure on the company and threatening the sustainability of the fuel supply. For those unfamiliar with government speak, the NNPC, which announced a profit of ₦3.3 trillion in August 2023, may need to allocate all those profits—and potentially more—toward paying subsidies. Some estimates suggest the outstanding debt could be as high as $6 billion. While NNPC continues to "engage with stakeholders," Nigerians should prepare for longer queues and the possibility of higher fuel prices. #Nigeria #oilandgas

The Exit of Multinational Companies from Ghana: A Wake-Up Call for Economic Diversification Author: Raymond Koffie, MBA, BSc, PgDip Ghana's economy has been hit by the exit of several multinational companies (MNCs) in recent years, including Societe Generale, Glovo, Nivea, Jumia Foods, Lipton Tea, Dark and Lovely, Bet 365, Game, and Bic. This trend raises concerns about the country's economic stability and highlights the need for diversification. The exit of MNCs can have significant impacts on the economy, including job losses, decreased economic activity, reduced competition and innovation, decreased availability of products and services, increased prices for consumers, and struggles for local businesses to fill the gap. Moreover, the exit of MNCs can also lead to a decrease in foreign investment, which can further exacerbate the economic challenges facing the country. The government and regulatory bodies must take immediate action to mitigate the impacts of the exit of MNCs. This can be achieved by implementing policies that support local businesses, encourage foreign investment, and promote economic diversification. Supporting Local Businesses Local businesses are the backbone of Ghana's economy, and they must be supported to grow and thrive. The government can provide support to local businesses through funding, training, and mentorship programs. This can help them to build capacity, improve their competitiveness, and create jobs. Encouraging Foreign Investment Foreign investment is critical for Ghana's economic growth and development. The government can encourage foreign investment by providing tax incentives, simplifying regulatory processes, and promoting investment opportunities. This can help to attract new investors and retain existing ones. Promoting Economic Diversification Ghana's economy is heavily dependent on a few industries, including agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. This makes it vulnerable to external shocks and economic downturns. To reduce this vulnerability, the government must promote economic diversification by encouraging local businesses to explore new markets and products. Conclusion The exit of MNCs from Ghana is a wake-up call for economic diversification. By supporting local businesses, encouraging foreign investment, and promoting economic diversification, Ghana can reduce its dependence on a few industries and build a more resilient economy. The government and regulatory bodies must act now to implement policies that will drive economic growth and stability. Recommendations 1. Government support for local businesses through funding, training, and mentorship programs. 2. Tax incentives and simplified regulatory processes to encourage foreign investment. 3. Promotion of economic diversification by encouraging local businesses to explore new markets and products. 4. Investment in infrastructure and transportation to improve the business environment. Raymond Koffie, CMILT

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