EBERE UZOUKWA, Ph.D
Upon his inauguration as Governor of Abia State, Governor Alex Otti unveiled an economic roadmap aimed at unlocking the economic potential and investment opportunities in the State. This roadmap has been instrumental in guiding his administration’s efforts to restore Aba to its former glory as a thriving commercial center. With a clear vision to reposition Abia State as a hub for trade, commerce, and industry, Governor Otti has been working tirelessly to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
To achieve this, Governor Otti ensured that Aba has a steady power supply by providing necessary assistance to make Aba Power functional. This move has been crucial in positioning Aba on the national and global map of investments. The impact of steady power supply on businesses cannot be overemphasized, as it has enabled entrepreneurs to operate efficiently, reduce costs, and increase productivity. The provision of steady power supply has also improved the quality of life for residents, enabling them to enjoy basic amenities like electricity in their homes and businesses.
Through his infrastructure revolution, Governor Otti has also ensured that roads are massively constructed and reconstructed in Aba, Umuahia, and other Local Government Areas of the State. In less than two years, Abia has been transformed into a huge construction site, with ongoing projects set to boost economic activity and improve living standards. The construction of roads has not only improved the aesthetic value of the State but has also enhanced connectivity, reduced travel times, and increased economic activity. The roads are designed to facilitate the movement of goods, services, and people, thereby stimulating economic growth and development.
Today, Governor Otti has strategically positioned Abia for investments by providing the necessary infrastructure to aid trade, commerce, and industrialization. The ongoing construction of the Abia airport will further increase investment flow into the State, making it more attractive to local and international investors. The airport project is a game-changer for Abia State, as it will facilitate easy movement of people, goods, and services, thereby boosting economic activity and creating jobs. The airport will also serve as a hub for cargo transportation, enabling businesses to transport goods quickly and efficiently.
Just recently, the Vietnamese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Bui Quoc Hung, held meetings with the business communities in Abia State, exploring areas of collaboration for mutual benefits. The Ambassador noted that Vietnam and Nigeria have many things in common and expressed his country’s commitment to fostering a strong bilateral relationship with Abia State. This development is a testament to Governor Otti’s efforts to unlock Abia’s economic potential and position the State as a hub for international trade and commerce.
The potential areas of collaboration identified include agriculture, textiles and garments, manufacturing, and electronics. The Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Mr. Kingsley Nwokocha, expressed optimism about the future of the collaboration, while his Industry and SMEs colleague, Mr. Mike Akpara, urged the Ambassador to attract Vietnamese investors to revive the moribund Aba Textile Mill. The visit by the Vietnamese delegation is a clear indication that Governor Otti’s economic roadmap is yielding positive results and attracting international attention.
As Governor Otti continues to work tirelessly to unlock Abia’s economic potential, it is clear that his administration is committed to creating a prosperous and economically viable State. With his economic roadmap as a guide, Governor Otti is confident that Abia State will become a hub for trade, commerce, and industry, creating jobs and improving the living standards of Abians. The future of Abia State is indeed bright, and Governor Otti’s leadership is the catalyst that will drive the State to achieve its full economic potential.
Expectedly, the impact of Governor Otti’s economic policies is already being felt across the State, with businesses springing up and existing ones expanding their operations. The State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has also increased significantly, enabling the government to fund more projects and provide better services to the people. Governor Otti’s commitment to transparency and accountability has also earned him the trust and confidence of the people, who are eager to support his administration’s efforts to develop the State.
As Abia State continues to make progress under Governor Otti’s leadership, it is clear that the State is on the path to greatness. With its rich natural resources, skilled workforce, and strategic location, Abia State has the potential to become a major economic hub in Nigeria. Governor Otti’s vision, leadership, and commitment to good governance are the key drivers that will unlock Abia’s economic potential and propel the State to greatness.
– Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the SSA to the Governor on Public Affairs.
