FG To Collaborate With Abia On Trade, Investment

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, has affirmed that the Federal Government is willing to collaborate with Abia State in areas that would boost trade and investment in order to enhance the economy.

The Minister made the affirmation during a visit to the State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, at the executive chambers of the Government House, Umuahia, the capital of Abia State on Monday.

Governor Ikpeazu had disclosed that the state government has put together strategies and initiatives that would intensify industrialization of some key sectors of the economy but hinted that funding, amongst others, is one of the major impending challenges.
Some of the strategies of the state government include massive drive in public private partnership, industry policy that would encourage conducive business environment, building lasting infrastructures, mechanized shoe making and leather clusters, boosting agriculture, private sector involvement in seaport infrastructure amongst others.
According to Governor Ikpeazu, the state is looking in the directions that would boost locally made leather wears and shoes.
He encouraged the Federal Government to allow the state to supply ‘Made in Aba’ military booths and paramilitary wears, hinting that efforts were being made to encourage quality control.
According to the Minister, increase in employment, enhancing industrialization and encouraging entrepreneurial skills would reduce the attention on oil sector which is an agenda that is being pursued vigorously by the Federal Government towards economy growth.
He also commended the Abia State Governor for the efforts.
Dr. Enelama said that the state’s readiness for synergy is in line with the Federal Government’s programme in investment and trade and also expressed optimism that the collaboration with states would yield results.