Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has expressed the State Government’s readiness to partner with the China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, in key areas of infrastructure development, including rail transportation,seaport development erosion control, dredging and other strategic projects.
Governor Otti stated this during a meeting with a delegation from the China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, led by its Managing Director, Mr Jason Wang, at his office in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA.
He reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to fostering partnerships that would fast-track industrialization and economic growth in Abia State.
The Governor disclosed that the State is keen on collaborating with the company on the development of the Azumiri Seaport project, for which a feasibility study is nearing completion.
He also disclosed plans to work with the company on the Abia–Maiduguri railway project adding that the proposed railway line is of great economic significance to Abia and the South East region.
He said that the Akwa Ibom State Government has already indicated interest in linking its rail line with that of Abia to enhance trade and commercial activities between the two neighbouring states.
Governor Otti further expressed the government’s willingness to involve the company in the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park project located at Owaza, as well as in efforts to revive moribund industries across the State.
Earlier in his remarks, the Managing Director of China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, Mr Jason Wang, said the visit was aimed at initiating high-level discussions with the Abia State Government on potential areas of collaboration and establishing a strategic partnership for the State’s infrastructural development.
Mr Wang explained that the company specialises in the design and execution of large-scale infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, drainage and erosion control systems, flyovers, railways, airports, seaports, marine engineering, dredging, land reclamation and project management consultancy.
He commended Governor Otti for the remarkable progress recorded in various sectors of the State’s economy, particularly in the area of road infrastructure.
Mr Wang added that China Harbour Engineering Company is currently handling several major projects across Nigeria, including the Lekki Deep Seaport, the Abuja–Keffi Expressway expansion and the Enugu–Otukpo–Makurdi road among other projects.
