Abia State’s New Business Environment
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has announced significant efforts to enhance the business environment in the state, aiming to attract new investments and bring back former investors. Announcing that Abia is ready to join global shoe making list, Dr. Otti highlighted that capital investment thrives in conducive environments, free from unhealthy government policies, which Abia is now striving to achieve.
Governor Otti’s Commitment to Investment
Governor Otti emphasized that profit drives investment capital and it flourishes where conditions are favorable. He stressed the importance of creating an attractive environment for both local and foreign investments, recalling an article he wrote as a newspaper columnist on this subject. Otti stated, “Capital has its own sense, it doesn’t have emotion, it’s not sentimental. It just moves to where the environment has been prepared because the reward for capital is profit.”
Welcoming Comfort Stevens
Dr. John Nwankwo, CEO of Comfort Stevens, led a group of investors, and Governor Otti received them. Moreover, this company aims to revolutionize the footwear industry in Abia State and Nigeria. In addition, Otti assured the investors of his administration’s support in realizing their goal of completing their factory in Owerrinta, Isialangwa South Local Government Area. Furthermore, he highlighted his commitment to projects that create job opportunities for the unemployed youth in Abia.
Supporting Local Manufacturing
Governor Otti underscored the importance of local manufacturing for economic development, noting that no country has thrived solely on the consumption of imported goods. His administration is focused on supporting existing businesses and attracting new investors through favorable policies. Efforts such as supporting the Geometric Power company and upgrading infrastructure, including the dualization of the Imo River-Umuikaa-Umuene road, aim to drive Abia’s industrialization.
Training and Upskilling Local Manufacturers
Expressing joy over Comfort Stevens’ plans to train and upskill local shoe manufacturers in Aba, Governor Otti promised a partnership with the company. Moreover, he identified finishing as a major challenge for local manufacturers and highlighted the potential benefits of introducing advanced technology and training. “Introducing them to technology will give you much more,” Otti remarked, thus emphasizing the importance of equipping local artisans with the right tools and skills.
Progress Under New Government
Dr. Nwankwo recounted the difficulties faced under the previous administration and, additionally, praised the progress made in the past year. Furthermore, he introduced the Governor to their large-scale industrial footwear project, set for commissioning in December 2024. Moreover, Nwankwo presented high-quality shoe samples and revealed that the factory aims to produce fifteen thousand pairs of shoes daily, thus enhancing Abia’s reputation in the global footwear industry.
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