Governor Alex Otti has inaugurated the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council with a charge to evolve initiatives focused on identifying, capitalising and showcasing the state’s area of comparative advantage.

Speaking on Thursday during the event at the Government House, Umuahia, Otti said that the calibre of individuals that make up the council speaks to the state’s vision.

The governor added that this development had sent a strong signal to potential investors that “Abia is poised to become the next big thing.”

Mr Otti said the government was desirous to make Abia a preferred investment destination for global businesses, hence the move to set up a council of intellectual giants that would work closely with the government to turn the vision into reality.

He also said the council would work with the government and other local stakeholders, including the local chambers of commerce, industry, mines and agriculture, to bring these opportunities to the attention of the investing global community.

He expressed optimism that this council can help the government achieve its vision in the next 24 months.

Mr Otti said, “We are not just seeking to attract a few big manufacturing outfits in the state to score cheap political points. 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.”

The governor added, “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-utilised for far too long.

“The good thing is that we now have an effective machinery to create a new era of prosperity, employment and layers of opportunities for these resilient and creative individuals.”

(NAN)