Kamsiyochukwu Mbamalu
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has announced a comprehensive plan to revive moribund industries and convert waste into energy, marking a significant shift towards sustainable economic growth and development.
Otti revealed that the state government has acquired Star Paper Mill and Afro-Beverages from the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, with plans to restart production and create thousands of jobs for residents. This initiative aims to boost the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rating and attract private partners to manage the industries profitably.
Waste-to-Wealth Initiative
The governor announced that Abia is transitioning from waste evacuation to recycling and power generation, with feasibility studies underway to convert rubbish into methane gas and electricity. This innovative approach is expected to make the state cleaner and healthier, while also generating energy.
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Education and Healthcare
Otti highlighted the government’s commitment to expanding education and healthcare services, with over 5,000 new teachers employed and 4,000 more to be hired soon. Schools are being converted into smart learning centres, and teachers are being trained to prepare students for the future. In healthcare, 79 primary health centres are being built or renovated, and 771 medical professionals are being recruited to strengthen rural health delivery.
Infrastructure Development
The governor announced the installation of over 8,000 solar streetlights under the “Light-up Abia” project, with more expected in the coming months. The state has also accepted an offer to purchase the Umuahia power ring-fenced area, ensuring steady power supply and enabling Geometric Power Plant, Aba to distribute surplus electricity to other areas.
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Security and Community Engagement
Otti attributed recent security successes to intelligence-led operations and urged residents to act as community watchdogs, reporting suspicious movements to relevant authorities. He thanked President Bola Tinubu for inaugurating eight newly reconstructed roads in Aba and announced plans to commission more roads for reconstruction.
The governor expressed gratitude to Abia residents for their support, pledging to continue working towards improving roads, schools, power, and healthcare services across the state.
