Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has emphasized that his administration’s partnership with manufacturers and investors is not about Government patronage but about fostering economic growth in the State.
Governor Otti stated this, on Wednesday, at his conference hall in Nvosi Isialangwa South LGA, while receiving a delegation from Haier Global Business, led by its Director for Africa, Mr. Sunny Liu.
The Governor urged the company to invest in Abia, stating that his government operates on the principles of partnership and economic value addition.
“Our Government is a Government of partnerships. In the last 22 months, we have engaged with the Private Sector like you on a Public-Private Partnership.
“Our partnership is not about patronising you, but it is about having you set up manufacturing base here”, Governor Otti stated.
The Governor highlighted Abia’s strong market potential, pointing out that Haier Global’s range of products, including tractors and electronics, already has a substantial customer base in the State and assured the company of Government support if it decides to invest in Abia.
“I am sure you know about Aba. If you get into Aba, there is no way you will not see a chunk of your products.
“They do travel to other places to get them,So if you were manufacturing around here, then it reduces the prices and cuts out logistics cost.
“For us what is most important is that jobs are created. When you are producing here, you are also increasing the economic base of the State in terms of GDP and even IGR”. Otti said.
He further stated that the State Government team would engage with the company to explore specific areas of collaboration and swiftly address necessary requirements for investment.
Earlier, Haier Global’s Director for Africa, Mr. Sunny Liu, expressed the company’s interest in collaborating with the Abia State Government.
He noted that Haier Global is a leading provider of digital solutions and is eager to partner with the State in Education, Energy, and Agriculture, among other sectors.
Also, the Haier Global Representative, Mr. Uche Chime, revealed that the company is setting up an assembly plant in one of the South Eastern States and is keen on establishing a manufacturing base in Abia.
He also expressed interest in supporting the State Government’s Smart School Initiative by supplying Solar systyems, IT Equipments, indoor classrooms, and E-Classroom Solutions.
