By Desmond Ejibas
Oyibo (Rivers) – The Promise Fast Food and Restaurant on Friday expanded its operations with the opening of a new outlet in Oyigbo, Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers.
President of The Promise, Mr Oluwatoyin Alabi said with the opening of the ultra modern restaurant that the company now operated about 15 outlets across Bayelsa, Kwara and Rivers states.
He said the decision to open the new outlet, despite the current global economic challenges, is borne out of its belief of the brand in the resilience of the nation’s economy.
“The opening of The Promise in Oyibo is part of our commitment to offering Nigerians the opportunity to savour our renowned menu of finest quality.
“The opening means employment of more Nigerians who will work at the outlet that offers affordable meals at great value for money.
Alabi said the company before COVID-19 pandemic had about 1,200 members of staff in its outlets across the three states it operates.
He added that the Oyibo outlet is the 15 outlet to be opened in three states and assured that more restaurants would be opened across the country.
“But currently that number has been reduced to 800 members of staff due to the challenges caused by the pandemic.
“In spite of this challenge, we have concluded plans to open another outlet in Akwa Ibom before the end of the year.
“We are also looking at expanding our operations in all the six states that make up the South South region,” he said.
Alabi urged residents of Oyigbo and its environs to patronise the outlet and enjoy its tasty world class menu.
The Chairman of Oyigbo Local Government Council, Mr Okechukwu Opara commended Alabi for his massive investment in the local government and assured of the council’s support.
Opara said the coming of the indigenous firm in the area was testament of improved security and enabling environment provided by the government.
“So, our duty as a government is to provide the enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Hence, we will do all we can to make sure that The Promise succeeds,” he assured.
The LG chairman called on the firm to employ youths of the area in the restaurant.
Speaking, Mr Mike Elechi, President of Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture (PHACCIMA) thanked Alabi for investing in the country.
According to him, the state government has created a safe environment for businesses to flourish in Rivers and wooed investors to invest in the state.
“We call on both foreign and indigenous firms to emulate the CEO of The Promise and invest in the thriving business opportunities in the state.
“We want businesses to multiply and expand as the state is a booming ground for investment,” he added.
Elechi assured the support of the body to the company, adding that PHACCIMA was fully committed to providing the support needed by Small and Mid-sized Enterprises. (NAN)
