Abia State Governor Alex Otti has inaugurated the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council, focused on identifying, capitalizing, and showcasing the state’s comparative advantage.
At the inauguration in Government House, Umuahia, on Thursday, Governor Otti declared that Abia was “poised to become the next big thing” by making the state a preferred investment destination for global business.
“We are not just seeking to attract a few big manufacturing outfits in the State to score cheap political points,” he enthused.
“Our ultimate goal is to re-make the entire state into a robust enterprise ecosystem with clear pathways to bigger global and regional markets.
“We are keen to transform our traditional agro-economy to become a major player in the global agricultural value chain, producing sufficient output to feed the local population and then for export.
“In Aba, we do not just make quality footwear and clothing; given the right support, our shoemakers and fashion designers can compete with the best anywhere in the world.
“Aba is also very strong on metal fabrication, wood works, and mechanical construction, sadly, the immense potential of our people has stayed hidden and under-utilized for far too long.”
The governor said the caliber of individuals appointed to the advisory council speaks to the state’s vision.
They include Mr. Victor Onyenkpa, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, Mr. Uche Orji, Mrs. Ndidi Nwuneli, Mr. Chika Nwobi, Dr. Olugbenga Adesida, and Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe.
Others are Mr. Clement Owunna, Dr. Uzodinma Iweala, Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, Mr. George Agu, Mr. Uzo Nwankwo, Mr. Chinedu Azodoh, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and Dr. Benedict Oramah.
They will be joined by five members of the Abia State Executive Council, including Gov. Alex Otti, the Attorney-General and Honourable Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna; the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Kingsley Anosike; the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Michael Akpara and the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu.
The council will be co-chaired by the former Emir of Kano, His Highness Khaleefa Muhammad Sanusi II, a former Director-General of the Securities Exchange Commission, Ms. Arunma Oteh, and the investment banker, Mr. Bolaji Balogun.
The Council will advise the state on the steps needed to foster innovation, attract investments, form partnerships, and enhance Abia's economic resilience.
