The Plateau Coalition of Business and Professional Associations (PLACOBPA), says the only way business and development can thrive in the state is when the state government engages business communities in decision making.
According to the group, if the communities would be included in issues like budget drafting and other decisions making processes, their input would make a great impact on the development of the state and thereby bringing external investment.
Cyril Ogboli, President of the group disclosed this during an interview with journalists in Jos.
While calling for inclusion in decision making, the chairman advised the government not to be increasing tax as such policy would be unfavourable to all kinds of businessess and would discourage investors into the state.
“Pay attention to areas of concern and see how the business would thrive.
“Reduce tax and make it simpler and all these would encourage more business establishments in the state because the environment is favourable.
“Added to that, the government should increase partnership with private sectors. Involve professionals in decision making. Open doors for them to tap more ideas.”
Ogboli also advised both the state and federal governments to change their ideas of giving palliatives or loans to people, explaining that it was better to give mentoring than a loan.
He explained that mentoring would give jobs that people would hold on till the end of their lives.