NIC Chairman Lays the Foundation Stone for 11 Housing Projects in Wasit and Highlights the Importance of Strategic Investment Planning
Dr. Haider Mohammed Makiya: Proper investment planning strengthens the national economy and achieves government program goals
During his visit to Wasit Governorate, the Chairman of the National Investment Commission (NIC), Professor Dr. Haider Mohammed Makiya, announced the commission’s plan to contract with an international consultancy firm to conduct initial feasibility studies aimed at shaping the economic identity and comprehensive developmental plan for all Iraqi provinces.
Dr. Makiya also revealed that the NIC is preparing to launch a package of investment projects exempted from public bidding in key sectors. These projects, which were reviewed in the Ministerial Economic Council and the Cabinet, aim to add significant value to the economies of Baghdad and other provinces, directly benefiting Iraqi citizens.
Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth
Dr. Makiya highlighted that investment with a realistic and accurate vision serves as a cornerstone for achieving the government program’s goals. He pointed out that Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) reached approximately $69 billion over the past 18 months, out of a total of $85 billion in foreign and domestic investments during the same period.
He added that the NIC is working on several high-impact strategic projects, including:
- Al-Teeb Economic City in Maysan Governorate.
- Renewable energy projects.
- Waste management and power generation projects.
Foundation Stone Ceremony and Project Inspections
As part of his visit, Dr. Makiya laid the foundation stone for 11 housing investment projects distributed across all administrative areas of Wasit Governorate, comprising a total of 5,000 housing units. This move aims to strengthen the housing sector and meet the needs of the population.
The visit also included inspections of several key investment projects, such as:
- Wasit General Investment Hospital, a 100-bed facility providing comprehensive medical services.
- Wasit Smart Egg Farm, with a production capacity of 700,000 eggs per day in its first phase.
- Jawaher Wasit Residential Complex, comprising 2,248 housing units on an area of 388 dunams.
Emphasis on Planning and Sustainable Development
Dr. Makiya emphasized that the Prime Minister’s approval of the NIC’s agreement with an international consultancy firm will enable the creation of a comprehensive investment map for each province. This map will align with the economic nature and developmental needs of each region, fostering economic integration and enhancing the ability to attract foreign investment effectively.
Government Commitment to Provincial Development
Wasit Governor, Dr. Mohammed Jameel Al-Miyahi, welcomed the NIC Chairman’s visit, noting its importance in strengthening the economic landscape of the governorate. He confirmed the existence of an investment map for 2025, which includes ambitious projects aimed at increasing developmental revenues and leveraging the political, security, and social stability in the province.
At the end of his visit, Dr. Makiya met with the Chairman of the Wasit Provincial Council, Mr. Ali Hassan Suleiman, along with council members and investors. They discussed the challenges and mechanisms for enhancing investment in the governorate to ensure the successful implementation of projects that meet citizens’ needs and drive sustainable development.