₦airaland Forum

WE REMAIN FULLY COMMITTED TO THE PROMOTION AND EXPANSION OF GOODS PRODUCED IN ABIA --- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has restated the total commitment of his administration to the relentless promotion and expansion of goods and services manufactured by Abians as a key ingredient of the economic development plans of his government.

The Governor stated this yesterday while speaking at a Fashion Show organized by Zenith Bank Plc in Lagos. The show which is sponsored by Zenith Bank created platform for the exhibition of Garment and Leather products that are made in Aba.

The Governor, who was invited by the Bank Management to speak at the event in recognition of his commitment and support to the growth and expansion of locally made products, stated that his administration will consistently support our local producers because it was the only way to grow the economy of the State.

Governor Ikpeazu thanked the Board and Management of Zenith Bank Plc for creating such a wonderful platform for our local producers and assured them that the leather and garment industry in Aba is a goldmine with guaranteed return on investments. He challenged other financial institutions and discerning investors to take advantage of the huge opportunities in Aba and the entire state, assuring that our people will work with them to fully recoup their investments.

He used the opportunity to state that the first even automated shoe factory in the state would roll out the first set of shoes by the first quarter of next year, as installation of machines imported from China was currently on going at the factory site in Aba.

The event was witnessed by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo Olu, Chairman of Zenith Bank, Mr. Jim Ovia, Group Managing Director of the Bank, Mr Ebenezer Onyeagwu and other top executives of the Bank.
Top icons of fashion and Nollywood were also present at the event.

The Abia delegation included the Honorable Commissioner for SME Development, Mr. Onyema Wachuku, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Nkwachukwu Agomuo and a Head of Department in the Ministry, Mrs Ngozi Nwosu, as well as the Director General of the Abia State Marketing and Quality Control Agency, Mr. Sam Hart.

The Governor is expected to return home today.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
2nd December 2019.

How Ikpeazu uses marketing tools to drive development in Abia State

According to American Marketing Association (AMA), Marketing is the activity, set of institutions, and processes for creating, communicating, delivering, and exchanging offerings that have value for customers, clients, partners, and society at large (Approved 2017).

Marketing tools are tools that companies use to develop and promote their products and services. In this context, the word ‘tools‘ refers to techniques, strategies, and materials.

When renowned Biochemistry teacher, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, emerged as the Governor of Abia State in 2015, there was nothing in his resume that suggested academic or occupational experience in marketing but over the years he has demonstrated profound knowledge and skills in the deployment of marketing tools to solve developmental challenges in Abia State.

The first signs that Governor Ikpeazu understands the power of marketing and leadership by example came early in his administration when he declared that all through his tenure as Governor he will wear “Made in Aba” brands and eat only locally produced rice. That immediately increased the brand equity of Aba tailors and designers as well as encouraged local rice farmers to produce more in order to, at least, satisfy the needs of government house since charity begins at home.

His aides also took a cue from that and generally gravitated towards wearing Made in Aba fashion materials as well as serving local rice to their guests.

#IkpeazuSabiTheWork

Businesses use various marketing tools to communicate company information, stimulate customer interest and motivate action. An integrated marketing approach applies several tactics to engage customers and build business.
With interest generated around locally manufactured goods and services, it wasn’t long before the Governor focused on local shoe makers in the state. With his detailed analysis of their situation, he arrived at four challenges that must be overcome to help artisans engaged in shoe making at Aba:

1. Power Supply
2. Capital
3. Automation
4. Marketing

Of the 4 variables, Governor Ikpeazu chose to start with marketing, which to a reasonable extent is within his control. He promptly gave himself the job title of Chief Marketing Officer for Made In Aba goods and services, and went to work promoting the brands within and outside the country using different marketing tools including relationship marketing, the social media, advertising, internet marketing, trade shows etc. International organizations like Ford Foundation took note of this exceptional approach and launched a supportive media campaign using international media channels such as CNN at no cost to the state.

While the opponents of the Governor who couldn’t understand where he was going with his campaign for made in Aba, and by implication, made in Nigeria goods, mocked him every step of the way he kept pushing. They had a good laugh when he showed up in Abuja and New York with his Made in Aba fashion shows. They continued laughing while he visited every high office in Abuja, from the presidency to the National Assembly, to market Made in Aba brands.

Back home, every top government official both from the federal and state levels that visited Abia received souvenirs from the Governor that included Made in Aba shoes and clothes equally packed into Made in Aba box. Local radio and television stations quickly keyed into it with jingles and programs promoting locally made brands with stations like Buzz FM making it part of their broadcast vision to promote the work of Abia artisans.

By 2016, the dividends of Goveenor Ikpeazu’s marketing dexterity started emerging. The Nigerian military ordered for thousands of Made in Aba military boots while the wife of the President, Aisha Buhari, weighed in to ensure that Aba Shoe makers produced the over 300,000 pairs of shoes needed by internally displaced persons in the north east region of Nigeria.

The Presidency also took note and endorsed executive order number 3 to compel procurement officers of government to first ask Aba and Nigerian producers before procuring anything from outside the country. Then came in the immediate past Senate President, Bukola Saraki, who also took note and joined the legislative apostles of Made in Aba products, promoting same within the hallowed chambers of the National Assembjy where another champion of Made in Aba is one of the strongest voices of the legislative branch in Nigeria: Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.

By simply optimally deploying relevant marketing tools, Governor Ikpeazu evolved solutions to the other challenges facing Aba manufacturers. The Federal Government, through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), deployed a gas powered system to deliver uninterrupted electricity to Ariaria international market and subsequently licensed power generating and distribution companies to serve the area which is one of the major shoe making clusters in Aba. Meanwhile, Governor Ikpeazu has continued to support Geometrics Power company to roll out steady power supply at Aba. According to information released by the company, the feat would likely be achieved in the first quarter of 2020.

With regard to finance, not only has Bank of Industry (BOI) returned to Abia State after many years of absence, they are supporting Aba manufacturers to fund critical projects. Governor Ikpeazu threw in his support by organizing business clinics for the artisans where they were able to register their companies at zero cost to them, learn basic accounting and branding as well as met with industry regulators and merchants of key goods and services they require to excel.

To resolve the issue of automation, Dr Ikpeazu identified 30 young shoe makers and sponsored them to China to learn automated shoe making at no cost to them. After their successful training, he imported the equipment they trained with and built a factory where the equipment are currently being installed. Expectedly, the first set of pairs of shoes will emerge from the automated shoe factory in Aba in the first quarter of 2020.

Already, the marketing promotion efforts of the Governor has delivered more than four billion Naira worth of sales in direct orders to Aba shoe makers and fashion designers. Many young entrepreneurs have also emerged around local manufacturing and sale of Made in Aba brands. Aba born Techpreneurs have equally seized the initiative to launch different applications and tools to buy and sell materials made in Aba to the world using online channels.

With the success of his marketing efforts with Made in Aba, Governor Ikpeazu has long deployed similar model to promote other Abia made brands such as Abia rice, Abia feeds and Abia mushroom. His model remains to use marketing tools to drive up demand and acceptance of locally made brands which in turn attracts support and investment from local and international stakeholders. While marketing experts have previously employed the tools to drive business growth and profit, it is difficult to find any record of use of marketing tools to drive development the way Governor Ikpeazu is doing in Abia State.

A live measure of the success of his effort is the fact that when you mention SME capital of Nigeria today, most folks will point to Aba. Wherever Made in Nigeria goods are mentioned or discussed in the world the first city that comes to mind is also Aba in Abia State. That alone speaks to one more benefit of having a scholar in governance.

#IkpeazuSabiTheWork

-JOK

PRESS RELEASE

ABIA STATE AND UN- HABITAT SIGN HISTORIC MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR THE PREPARATION OF STRUCTURES FOR THREE MAJOR CITIES IN THE STATE IN NAIROBI, KENYA

After series of negotiations and meetings personally led by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, the long awaited MOU between the Abia State Government and the UN- HABITAT for the preparation and implementation of Structure Plans for Aba, Umuahia and Ohafia was signed on Wednesday, November 20th, 2019 in Nairobi, Kenya.

Governor Ikpeazu dispatched a strong delegation from the State Ministry of Lands, Survey and Urban Development to Kenya to tidy up the work and sign the agreement on behalf of the State Government.
The delegation was led by the Honorable Commissioner in the Ministry, Barrister Suleman Ukandu, the Permanent Secretary, Her Excellency, Mrs Joy Ezinwanyi Nwakanma, MNI, Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development/President of the Nigerian Institution of Town Planners, TPL Lekwa Ezuta and the Director of Town Planning in the Ministry, TPL Dr. Lawson Ananaba.

The signing of the MOU was done at the official residence of the Nigerian High Commission to Kenya and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the UN-HABITAT, Ambassador Sheidu Omeiza Momoh. The Ambassador also witnessed the signing of the agreement as well as the Honorable Minister of State for Works and Housing, Engr. Abubakar Aliyu. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry signed on behalf of the State Government while the UN-HABITAT Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Naison Mutizwa-Mangiza signed for the UN-HABITAT.

The last of the meetings prior to this final stage was hosted by Governor Ikpeazu at the Abia State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja two months ago.

By the signing of this agreement, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, known as the UN-HABITAT will collaborate with the Abia State Government in preparing and implementing Structure Plans that will guide the sustainable growth of Aba, Umuahia, Ohafia and other urban centers in the State. They will also support the state with technical advisory services to enable the state plan ahead of development in order to manage rapid urban growth and capacity building of institutions, agencies and officials involved to enable them discharge their duties more effectively. In particular, the UN-HABITAT will aid directly in the urban renewal of Aba, the commercial hub of the State.

This project will formally take off in 2020.

The signing of this MOU is historic as this is the first time the Abia State Government will enter into this kind of comprehensive agreement with any agency of the United Nations for the development of a sustainable plan for regeneration of our major cities.

This is yet another direct result of the Ikpeazu administration’s push for the improvement of the well-being of the people of Abia State.

The outing in Nairobi, less than one month after the successful Boardroom outing, led personally by the Governor in Pretoria, South Africa where several deals were struck for the Enyimba Economic City Project is a clear evidence of resolve of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s global and futuristic approach to governance.

Expressing delight at this development, Dr. Ikpeazu stated that “one of my key priorities as Governor is to lay solid foundations that will make for the sustainable growth of our state, way beyond my tenure”.
According to the Governor, “one notable factor that has slowed down our pace of development has been the near absence of long term sustainable development plans. Leaders at all levels must look beyond their limited terms of office, see into the future and put in place plans and strategies that successive administrations can build on. We must shift emphasis from temporary applauses and become futuristic in our thinking as a people”.

“This is the philosophy behind my approach to governance. This is why I am passionate about the Enyimba Economic City Project. This latest MOU with the UN-HABITAT is yet another push by our administration towards building a stronger and better future for our people. The results may not show immediately but in the years to come, our people will benefit from this. Our government will provide the UN-HABITAT with all the necessary support required to successfully execute this project because we understand the benefits it will bring to our State". The Governor concludes.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
26th November, 2019.

FROM A STATE ASSOCIATED WITH KIDNAPPING AND VIOLENT CRIMES TO A SUBJECT OF INTEREST FOR GLOBAL INVESTORS, THINGS ARE LOOKING UP FOR ABIA STATE ---- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu says that the economic outlook of Abia State is very bright and the results of the various efforts of his administration to reposition the economy of the State will begin to manifest in the nearest foreseeable future.

Governor Ikpeazu spoke last night in Lagos while addressing a cross section of Abians in Lagos at the Governor’s Lodge in Victoria Island at mini reception they organized for him assured the people of Abia State that he is fully focused on his mission of repositioning the state and laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and development.

The Governor who returned yesterday from Johannesburg, South Africa where he fully participated in the Africa Investment Forum stated that he was humbled by the interest shown by International Development Agencies like the Africa Development Bank, The Afrexim Bank and Private Global Investors in the development of the Enyimba Economic City Project urged our people to be patient and steadfast because the process of development doesn’t happen overnight.

According to the Governor, “some years ago, no one would have associated Abia with anything positive. Then, Abia was associated with Osisikankwu and his band of kidnappers who practically brought economic activities in the state, especially Aba to a halt. If today, we have moved from that dark point to a place where peace and security have been restored, and investors are now willing and prepared to put down money to invest in different sectors of our economy, then we are fully on course”.

Continuing, Ikpeazu said “ ailing industries are returning to life. Golden Guinea Breweries Umuahia is fully back on stream with brand new jobs. Companies like the International Equitable Association in Aba are making efforts to return. This makes me very humble and confident about our economic recovery initiatives”.

“If today and as Governor, I can sit in an international boardroom with representatives of the Federal Government on one side, discussing investment in Abia with top international development agencies and institutional investors on the other side,with firm assurances of investment funds, then its a new day for Abia”.

Assuring that his administration will work tirelessly to provide a conducive environment for the manifestation of these investment drives, Ikpeazu restated his commitment to the completion of key infrastructural projects across the state and the sustenance of security and peace which he described as “key catalysts of our development agenda”.

The Governor will hold other meetings today in Lagos and is expected back home by tomorrow.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
16th November, 2019.

LONG TERM PLANNING, KEY TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT --- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu says that only meaningful long term planning by government can lead to sustainable development and as such, the Abia State government has concluded arrangements for a long term economic development plan to facilitate rapid development of the State.

The Governor who spoke through the Permanent Secretary/Executive Secretary, Abia State Planning Commission, Dr. (Mrs.) Nnenna Chikezie during the opening ceremony of a three day Approach Meeting of Abia State Long-Term Development Plan Draft Agenda held at Umuahia said the State is looking at 30 years long term sustainable development plan.

She said that the essence of the Approach Meeting is to draw out a long-term development plan for Abia State, following the directives of the State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu that the Planning Commission drives the entire process, "The objective is to initiate frame work, discuss the tools that would be needed to drive this process and at the end bring in every stakeholder to the table, so that a development plan that is all inclusive would be produced." She said it is a process that must be completed before the year ends.

According to the Executive Secretary, the Governor's directives followed the impressive performance of the Abia team in a competition that took place recently in South East/South South . She disclosed that the State Government is collaborating with Partnership Initiative for Niger Delta (PIN) to achieve the goal, adding that realizing the plan would help the State access help from donor agencies as they would be able to see and assess the economic road map of the State.

In his presentation, the lead consultant of PIN, Dr. Ebebe Ukpong assured that they would bring their experiences to bear and work as a team as well as give technical guidance to Abia State government to enable the State drive her economic development plan accordingly.

He said the meeting would avail its participants the understanding of the areas that are primary in building a development plan of the State as well as set agenda for the State team.

Contributing, the Partnership and Engagement Manager of Partnership Initiative for Niger Delta (PIN), Dr. Chime Asonye said the team is interested in making State governments to be proactive in economic development plans.

He said as partners, they would be committed to supporting Abia State government in getting her economic development plan and ensure monitoring and evaluation are put in place as they implement their development plans.

The Approach Meeting drew participants from various sectors including civil societies, public and private sectors as well as civil servants from relevant cadres.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Policy Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation, Dr.. Chima Chukwu was part of the team from the State Government at the meeting.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
12th November, 2019.

LAWYERS MUST PUT PUBLIC INTEREST FIRST --- Ikpeazu.

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has called on members of the Nigeria Bar Association to ensure they discharge their duties and obligations in line with the principles of Justice and rule of law.

The Governor made the call at The ADDREX Hotel, Aba while declaring open the 2019 annual conference of the Nigerian Bar Association -Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) with the theme “Lawyering in the public interest”

He stressed the need for lawyers to
practice in line with global best practices saying that public interest lawyers are expected to save lives and protect fundamental rights of the people, especially the poor and vulnerable groups in the society

The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Sir. Ude Oko Chukwu commended the vision of the NBA in inaugurating SPIDEL, which is an NBA's commitment to promoting the rule of law and growth of public interest law in Nigeria and said that promoting the idea of pro Bono legal services for those who need them is commendable.

He expressed hope that the conference would provide an opportunity for the members to brainstorm and share ideas aimed at enhancing their performance in serving the public, adding that the outcome would equip them to contain with the challenges of the profession effectively.

Governor Ikpeazu, who thanked the organizers for choosing Abia as the hosting State reassured the NBA of his commitment in partnering her for the common good of the people and wished them fruitful deliberations.

In his speech, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) representated by his Special Assistant on Anti Corruption, Biodiun Aikomo said that the conference is a sign that NBA is committed to using the law as an instrument of economic development.

He said the conference is an opportunity for lawyers to reinvigorate themselves in ensuring rule of the law prevails, adding that Nigeria is in dire need for eliminating corruption.

In a Goodwill message, the Chief Judge of Abia State, Justice Onuoha Ogwe assured of the NBA of the continuous coorperation of the Bench with the Bar, describing the event as an epoch making one.

Speaking, President, Nigeria Bar Associate, Mr. Paul Usoro (SAN) stated that the value NBA - SPIDEL has to offer to lawyers and the public at large cannot be over emphasized According to him, the theme "Lawyering in the public interest” is appropriate, considering the challenges the nation faces today, which include incessant kidnapping, violation of human rights by security agencies, mismanagement of public funds etc. and described public interest lawyering as a process of legal empowerment aimed at capacity building of everyday people towards using the law and institutions to bring about social change. He said that lawyers have key roles to play in matters of public interest , saying it is a core drive of economic development in a nation
He thanked Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for his magnanimity which made them to host the programme in Abia State as well as appreciated the Governor for appointing their lawyers in his cabinet.

In their various speeches, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Elder Chibuike Nwokeukwu,SAN and Chairman, NBA-Section on Public Interest & Development Law (SPIDEL), Elder (Dr) Paul Analaba, SAN, the essence of the conference is to appraise, review , discuss and chart a new cause about how NBA as the leading Civil Society in Nigeria should serve the people
They thanked the Governor for the opportunity of hosting the programme with short notice and providing adequate security for the participants.

Also, Mr. Aliyu Abubakar, Director Legal Aid Council and Mr. Olaniyi Omodara, Director Legal Services of the National Human Right Commission said NBA is an important partner in promoting public interest. They assured their sustained collaborations with the NBA, affirming that assisting the poor and indigent Nigerians to get justice is of great national and public interest.

The conference which would last four days has participants drawn from all over Nigeria including the Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice of Abia State, Barr. Uche Ihediwa among other lawyers in the State.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
6th November, 2019.

BREAKING NEWS...

IKPEAZU NAMES AGBAZUERE CHIEF OF STAFF

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has approved the appointment of Dr. ACB Agbazuere as his new Chief of Staff.

Dr-acb Agbazuere was until this new appointment, the General Manager of the Abia State Passenger Insurance Manifest and Safety Scheme.

He is a former Chairman of the Abia State Chapter of the Nigeria Labor Congress, a former elected Executive Chairman of Isiala Ngwa South LGA and a former Commissioner for Information and Strategy.
He holds a Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate Degrees in Law.

The Governor also approved the appointment of Barrister Eze Chikamnayo as his new Special Adviser on Strategy and Communications. Eze Chikamnayo is a former Commissioner for Information in the State.

The appointments take immediate effect.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
5th November 2019.

ABIA MUST COME FIRST -- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has counseled all true Abians who love the State to put Abia first in all their dealings to ensure that the welfare of the people of the State is given paramount consideration.

The Governor stated this today at Government House Umuahia when he received in audience, the Honorable Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah who paid him a courtesy visit.

Governor Ikpeazu congratulated the Honorable Minister on his appointment as a Minister of the Federal Republic and described him as “Our Ambassador at the Federal Executive Council” urging him to push for those policies that will enhance the state of affairs in Abia State as they come up for discussion at Abuja.

The Governor used the opportunity to inform the Minister of the unwholesome activities of some mining companies who carry on their business in the state without recourse to the health, safety and environmental implication of their activities on the people of the State urging him to use his good offices to ensure that mining companies who are issued licenses at Abuja must commit to good practices of safety and community relations, assuring the Minister of the continuous support of the State Government to his activities.
He drew the attention of the Minister to the menace of erosion in some parts of the State, calling on him to use his good offices to ensure that funds to the state from the Ecological Office actually are put to good use for the good of our people. The Governor told the Minister that his administration had worked together with NEWMAP to tackle three major erosion sites in the state, one at Isingwu Umuahia and two at Isiala Ngwa, with each of these interventions coming with a minimum of 2km roads, expressing confidence in the abilities of the Minister to develop the right synergy in Abuja to push for more of such interventions for our state.
The Governor wish thanked him for coming and wished him well in his assignment.

Earlier, the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Ogah told the Governor that he was in the State to represent President Muhammadu Buhari at the funeral of the son of the former Head of State, General Aguiyi Ironsi and that it was proper and courteous for him to visit the Governor pay his respects, and also to assure him and people of the State that he remains committed to the collective good of the people of the State, even from his duty post in Abuja.

Remarking that “Politics is over. It’s now time for governance”, Dr Uche Ogah told the Governor that as an Abian, he has a duty to support the government of the State and assured the Governor that his ministry will gladly collaborate with his administration to see how the issue of abuses by mining companies can be checked and to ensure that the State gains maximum benefits from mining activities carried out in the State.
He also informed the Governor that he was working hard to ensure that Abia gets her own share of ecological funds to fight the menace of erosion.

The Minister thanked the Governor for receiving him and members of his entourage.

Deputy Governor Ude Oko Chukwu and other top officials of the State Government were part of the impressive event.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
25th October, 2019.

UNDERSTANDING THE IKPEAZU INDUSTRIALISATION VISION FOR ABIA STATE (PART 1)

Sam Hart

Over time, the most impactful leaders across generations and epochs have been the ones who are most able to craft and articulate their vision for their society and get the critical mass of people behind that vision. Leadership rises and falls on vision. Vision remains one of the most potent tools of effective leadership for what you cannot imagine and see, you cannot aspire towards.

Dubai today is celebrated as a global destination. A dry desert patch in times of yore which has been converted into a breathtaking tourism and business hub with cutting edge buildings and innovative technology across sectors. In his book ‘My Vision’, the Ruler of Dubai, Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum gave credit to his father, Sheik Rashid for envisioning the Dubai we all see today.

In Abia State, a similar paradigm is unfolding. We are witnesses to the crystallization of the vision of Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu for the quantum industrialization of Abia State.

Upon assumption of office in 2015, Governor Ikpeazu was very clear as to where he wanted Abia State to be - encapsulated in a well thought-out vision document containing steps to be taken to arrive at the envisaged destination.

A part of that plan was to channel developments to the 3 Senatorial Zones of Abia State according to the pre-existing comparative and competitive advantage of each zone. Abia North Senatorial Zone, long renowned for agrarian prowess was to be the Agricultural production hub of the State. Abia Central, already housing all government administrative offices was to be the administrative hub as well as agro-processing hub in the State while Abia South Senatorial Zone would receive attention geared towards promoting its pre-eminent position as the Industrial Hub of the State.

In this treatise, we will concentrate specifically on Abia South Senatorial Zone and attempt to paint the narrative of what Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has done to position Abia South Senatorial Zone as the Industrialization Hub of Abia State.

IN THE BEGINNING
As alluded to above, first was the planning phase to be able to set out the vision of what Governor Okezie Ikpeazu wanted for Abia South Senatorial zone. As established in various communications, the Ikpeazu administration came up with a policy document that outlined 5 Pillars of Development and Enablers upon which to anchor its developmental objectives for Abia State. The Pillars are Agriculture, Education, Trade, Commerce and Oil and Gas. The Enablers include Comprehensive Healthcare Development, Infrastructural Overhaul, Urban Renewal, Education, Ease of Doing Business, Security and Social Reorientation.

As it concerns Abia South Senatorial Zone, the Key Pillars that relate to the Zone are Trade, Commerce, Oil and Gas and virtually all the enablers.

Thus, upon assumption of office, mindful of the challenge of access into Aba to ventilate the commercial city, the immediate task before the administration was the ventilation of Aba by opening up hitherto clogged arteries into and out of the city to allow for free flow of customers into Aba which was already a commercial centre-point but was suffering trade hemorrhage due to lack of access roads.

It was on that premise that his first action as elected Governor on day one of his tour of duty was to commence the construction of key roads leading into and out of Aba. Thus was Ukaegbu Road and Ehere Road flagged off on day one. The two roads have since been delivered with several others opening into the commercial heart of Aba like the Oomne Road, Umuola Road, Umuocham Road, Umule Road, MCC/Chima Nwafor Road, Umuatako Road, Kamalu Road, Osusu Road, Road, Old Express Road, Faulks Road, Ururuka Road, Ekwerazu Akwa Ibom Road and Samek Road. Port Harcourt Road is also expected to ease access into Aba upon completion complemented by Aba-Owerri Road where solid work is also ongoing.

These road works were of course preceded by a massive exercise to open up blocked drains, desilt the existing drains which had been clogged for decades and dredge the Aba River to accommodate the inflow of stormwater from newly opened existing drains and new ones that were compulsorily built for each of the aforementioned roads.

THE MADE IN ABA CAMPAIGN
Contemporaneous with the massive efforts to open up Aba for trade and commerce was the Made In Aba Campaign which saw to the highlighting of the already existing strength of Aba as the commercial centre-point of West Africa. The Campaign, which the Governor personally led and championed was a reorientation campaign leading to a re-embrace of locally produced clothes and finished leather goods.

The Governor led by example by insisting on wearing only items of clothing that were made in Aba and followed it up with a marketing campaign which saw him take the products to social and political influencers where he preached the need to patronize local goods with emphasis on Aba produced goods.

The campaign would soon yield massive dividends as the Nigerian Army placed an order for 50,000 military boots to be produced in Aba. At a ballpark figure of N10,000 per boot, that move alone drove N500M into Aba. The campaign was at the same time escalated to other military and paramilitary agencies including the National Youth Service Corps. Fashion and marketing shows were held in Abuja, New York, Lagos, London, South Africa, Egypt, the Gambia and several other locations to announce the rebirth and showcase the quality of Made in Aba goods.

The campaign opened many doors. Doors of international relevance for the Aba producer. Aba Producers are now regular features at international events. They have gone abroad in several batches to different countries. China, South Africa, Rwanda, Gambia, Egypt, the United States of America. Aba has gone global. They are signing partnership agreements with new markets, funders and development partners and accessing funds hitherto out of their reach. They are no longer pesky irritants and fake goods merchants. They now have a seat at the table of all Micro Small and Medium Enterprises conversations in Nigeria and beyond. A new respect has been put on the name of Aba.

To date, the total value of trade in goods and services that have come into Aba as a result of the campaign is estimated at above N5B while the new jobs created by the campaign stands at 500,000.

THE MAKE IN ABA CAMPAIGN (MADE IN ABA 2.0)
Having re-established the place of Aba as the pre-eminent destination for trade and commerce especially in fabrics and finished leather goods in West Africa with empirical and verifiable evidence, the next frontier in the well-articulated vision was to drive the production of those goods and services in Aba instead of the pre-existing reality of Aba being just a trade centre for goods from other places and goods manufactured on a small scale in the city.

The first step towards realizing the Make in Aba Vision was tackling the challenges to production in Aba. The challenges were creation of access into and out of Aba which had been addressed via massive infrastructural works. The other challenges were electric power, access to cheap funding and automation.

BIPARTISAN ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY
Prior to the advent of the Ikpeazu administration, the two sources of electric power for production in Aba were the epileptic and unreliable National Grid and the more dependable but hugely uneconomical reliance on power generating sets of different capacities. But through the untiring efforts of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and his deft bipartisan economic diplomacy, he wooed the Federal Government – which controlled the levers of power (financial, regulatory and electric) – to come into Aba and support the rebirth efforts. It was as a result of that diplomacy that Vice President Yemi Osinbajo as Acting President, visited Aba with Heads of all Federal Government Financial and Regulatory Agencies to hold the maiden SME Clinic where the challenges highlighted above were brought to the fore.

The then Acting President mandated the Heads of Agencies to set up offices in Aba to tackle the diagnosed challenges. Thus did the Bank of Industry, Nigerian Investment Promotion Council, Nigerian Export promotion Council, Federal Inland Revenue Services, Corporate Affairs Commission, Rural Electrification Agency, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and all other such agencies open offices in Aba.

POWER
Having identified the challenge of lack of reliable electric power in Aba as a major hindrance to production, steps were taken to remedy the situation via a two-pronged approach. The first was a novel partnership with the Rural lectrification Agency to provide electric power for Ariaria International Market via an off-grid arrangement that would not rely on the epileptic National Grid. This arrangement led to the Aba Integrated Power Project funded by the Rural Electrification Agency which led to the building of a Power Plant at Ariaria International Market. The pilot phase saw 1,000 shops in Aba enjoy uninterrupted power for 6 months after which the project was scaled to cover 35,000 shops which all enjoy uninterrupted power today at competitive prices.

The second leg was the Governor taking centre stage in the resolution of the lingering situation hindering the realization of the Geometric Power Project in Aba. The Governor leveraged the full weight of his office to work with the promoters of Geometric Power to untangle the web that had held them down. He led meetings with the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Power, contending Enugu Electricity Distribution Company and other stakeholders. Having worked to resolve the regulatory and bureaucratic knots around the project, he also joined in the search for funding to re-start the project. He travelled with the Geometric Team in search of new investments at African Export Import Bank in Egypt, Ruyi Group in China and other local and international lenders and investors. The result of those efforts is that new funds have been pumped into Geometric Power and their revival is imminent to provide alternative and competitive source of Power for the wider Aba Industrial belt.

FUNDING FOR ABA PRODUCERS
Again, through the efforts highlighted above, Aba Producers are now recipients of support from Federal Government and Corporate Private Lending Institutions. The Bank of Industry set aside N500M for Aba Producers, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigerian Export Import Bank and the Bank of Agriculture all have facilities for Aba Producers at low interest rates. The Aba Producer now has options of sources of capital for their trading activities.

AUTOMATION
A thorough diagnosis of the challenges of industrialization in Aba was the realization that 90% of production of goods in Aba were manually driven and concentrated in micro shops. The logical next step to scaling production in Aba thus was a deliberate project to automate production in Aba. This led to efforts to expose Aba producers to machine-led production rather than the manual production they were accustomed to.

To kick-start this initiative, the Governor sent 30 selected Aba producers to China to be embedded in a shoe production company to learn the art of machine production. The pilot producers have since returned and the Governor has ordered the machines they used in the Factories where they were embedded.

THE ABA AUTOMATED SHOE FACTORY
As stated above, the full production line that the Aba producers worked with in China have been purchased by the Governor and installation has commenced at the gigantic factory location at Umukalika Obingwa near Aba. The factory will have capacity to produce 10,000 shoes per day. The 30 producers trained in China in the use of the machines will be the pilot staff of the shoe factory while they train other producers to work with them. The factory is expected to have a full staff capacity of 300 at opening – a number that will grow to 500 at full production with another 500 ancillary job opportunities.

THE NIBRA SHOE FACTORY UKWA
Part of the drive of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for the opening up of Aba to industrialization saw him travel to Brazil to inspect shoe factories in the country. He held meetings with the Chambers of Commerce and invited them to set up a shoe factory in Aba. The result of that trip is the NIBRA (Nigeria Brazil) Shoe Factory at Obuaku, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State.

The Nigerian Export Import (NEXIM) Bank have partnered with the company with an initial take-off facility of $10M and construction of the factory building is at an advanced stage.

THE ENYIMBA ECONOMIC CITY (EEC) PROJECT
This is unarguably the most ambitious project ever embarked upon or executed East of the Niger. The Abia State Government is partnering with Crown Realtors to actualize the project. It is Private Sector-driven with the full support of the Federal Government of Nigeria. It is the first Free Trade Zone in South East Nigeria. One of the trios of pilot Special Economic Zones in Nigeria alongside the Kano and Lekki Special Economic Zones. The project is spread across 9,800 Hectres of massive Industrial Area spread across 3 Local Government Areas of Abia State. It consists of Factories, Assembly Plants, Manufacturing Hubs, Clusters, Residences, Hotels, Hospitals, Schools, etc. It will provide 650,000 jobs, 300,000 units of urban housing, population of 1.5M people, 2,000 industrial/business units and annual value output of $5B. The Federal Government of Nigeria has invested into it by taking up 20% equity worth N100B. The list of Anchor-tenants already signed-on are international consortia. They include the Ruyi Group, the largest garment and power producer in the world. 4 other Anchor-Tenants of that magnitude are also on board.

This is part of the trans-generational vision of the Ikpeazu administration to industrialize Abia State for today and for the future.

REVITALISATION OF MORIBUND INDUSTRIES
As part of the wider campaign to industrialize the State, the Ikpeazu administration embarked on a drive to revitalize moribund industries in Abia State. It is worth stating that most of these industries, which were hitherto owned by the Abia State Government had been privatized prior to the emergence of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu as Governor of Abia State.

That notwithstanding, the Governor directed an audit of the industries with the objective of finding out what had led to their collapse and how the Abia State Government can assist in their revitalization. For most of them, the issues were outdated equipments and machinery and lack of funds to drive the necessary turnaround to bring them back to life. Governor Ikpeazu took it upon himself to work with the private owners of the industries to bring them back to life for the benefit of the people they were employing who are mostly Abians.

The first fruit of that initiative is the re-opening of the Golden Guinea Breweries Plc. The company had been moribund since 2003 but Governor Ikpeazu worked with the core investors to leverage his office and secure for them audience with relevant funding agencies who provided the funds needed to install new equipments at the Brewery.

Today, with the installation of a new Brewery and recalibration of its operations, the Golden Guinea Breweries Plc has resumed production of its flagship Golden Guinea Beer and it is now in the markets. The implication of this milestone for the economy of Umuahia – nay Abia State – is unquantifiable. Countless direct and indirect jobs have been created and a new set of empowered individuals have emerged.

Having resolved the issues that kept Golden Guineas Breweries closed, attention has shifted to Modern Ceramics Umuahia and there is a concerted effort to resolve its issues and have it re-opened.

The same will also be done for other closed factories in Abia State.

If the first term of Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu was about setting out his Pillars and Enablers of development, his 2nd term is about casting the structures that will rest on those pillars and enablers. It has become obvious that Governor Ikpeazu was deliberate and calculated from the get go. Everything has dovetailed into everything and it is all making sense now. He has laid the foundation for a prosperous, exciting Abia State of tomorrow and posterity will be kind to him.

Tomorrow will be exciting in Abia State. Tomorrow is here.

Sam Hart is Special Adviser to the Governor on Communications

ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT NAMES NEW COMMISSIONERS AND THEIR PORTFOLIOS

1. Chief Chimaobi Ebisike - Special Duties
2. Chief John J. Okoro - Joint Projects
3. Lady Loveth Uwaoma - Culture and Tourism
4. Dr Cosmos Ndukwe - Trade and Commerce
5. Chief Ugbaja T. Odionyemfe - Housing
6. Mr. Onyema Wachuku - SME Development
7. Sir G. C. Onyendilefu - Local Govt and Chieftaincy
8. Chief Emeka Ikwuagwu - Youth and Sports Development
9. Barr. Bob Chiedozie Ogu - Works
10. Hon. D. K Uduma - Budget and Planning
11. Chief Ekele Nwaohanmuo - Transport
12. Chief Mrs Ukachi Amala - Women Affairs
13. Prince Ezekwesiri Ananaba - Cooperatives
14. Dr Solomon Ogunji - Environment
15. Chief Ikpechukwu Onuoha - Petroleum
16. Prince Dan Okoli - Homeland Security
17. Alh. Suleiman Ukandu - Lands
18. Dr Aham Uko - Finance
19. Hon. Chijioke Madumere - Science and Technology
20. Dr K. C. K Nwangwa - Education
21. Chief Mrs. Uwaoma Olenwengwa - Industry
22. Dr Joe Osuji - Health
23. Engr. Emma Nwabuko - Public Utilities

16th October, 2019

I WILL COMPLETE ALL ON GOING PROJECTS INITIATED BY MY ADMINISTRATION ---IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has reiterated that his government remains committed to the completion of all the projects he has embarked upon in the State.

He said that, for the first time in history of Aba, drainage has been constructed from Asa-Nnentu to Number One Portharcourt Road, disclosing that the main road construction would soon commence and would be completed by his administration.

The Governor made this public while speaking as Special Guest at the Thanksgiving Service at the 1st Session of the fifth Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Aba Ngwa North, held at All Saints' Cathedral Abayi Umuocham, Aba with the theme "Be of the Church, not in the Church". He said that the theme of the Synod is apt and enjoined Christians to be committed to the church.

Governor Ikpeazu demanded the church to select two of her members who would participate in the graduate and undergraduate scholarship program of the State to Australia, informing that the first batch of the beneficiaries would leave for Australia by January next year. He equally assured that the scholarship program would last through out his second tenure and congratulated the church on the success of the Synod.

Also speaking, the Senator representing Abia Central, Chief T. A Orji represented Hon. Ginger Onwusibe thanked the church and called for sustained prayers of the church towards government. He told Abia people to be patient with the Abia Governor, who he said would make Abia people to smile when he will have brought all his dreams of development to reality in the State.

Speaking in the same vein, the member representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Ossy Prestige thanked the church for inviting him though he is neither from Osisioma Ngwa nor an Anglican, stating that once elected, a person ceases to be partisan but works for the benefit of the people.

In his address, the Bishop, Anglican Diocese of Aba Ngwa North, Rt. Rev. Nathan Kanu said the Synod calls on the church people all over the world to desire to conform to the image of Christ, move from being just nominal members and denominations of the church to becoming embodiment of the character of Christ who is the Lord of the church.

He called on political leaders to work together for the betterment of Abia State irrespective of their party differences and prayed God to grant grace to the Governor and other government leaders to lead well.

The Bishop thanked the Governor for appointing their members to positions of authority including Commissioners designate, Barr. Ekele Nwaohamuo and Mrs. Ukachi Amala as well as the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Barrister Onyebuchi Ememanka, his Personal Assistant, Mr. Chimaeze Nwafor, etc.

In his sermon, Venerable Ernest Onuoha from the Diocese of Abuja said the church today is in danger because some members are not genuine as they belong to secret societies, hate one another and live all sorts of immoral lives.

He took his text from John 17:14-16 and said that people of God are expected to change all the negative influences that affect the church of God and called for self examination and living in an acceptable way of God, stressing the need for all to repent and be of the church and not just in the church, describing the church as the agent of transformation which makes comforms

The servant of God condemned the unwarranted campaigns of calumny taking place in church and even in various levels of government leaders and urged people to stop unnecessary criticism against political leaders.

The Synod took time to pray for Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, government of Abia State, Nigeria and the church.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
13th October 2019.

THE NIGERIAN ARMY IS ONE OF THE KEY INSTITUTIONS OF OUR NATIONAL UNITY --- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has described the Nigerian Army as one of the most fundamental institutions of our National Unity and assured that Abia State would remain a partner in progress in ensuring that it succeeds in its efforts to securing the people and territorial integrity of the nation.

Governor Ikpeazu gave the assurance while receving in audience a delegation of the acting General Officer Commanding, 82 Division of the Nigeria Army, Brigadier General L A Adeboye. He said his administration would do everything within its powers to sustain its support to the military. According to the Governor, trade and commerce which is a key part of the focus of his government cannot thrive without adequate security and good road, hence his administration has ensured good relationship between it and security agencies in Abia State.

The State chief executive disclosed that the greatest challenges in the South East are kidnapping, armed robbery and cult acitivities that just crept in. Governor Ikpeazu said that proliferation of small arms is an oxygen that fuels crime in Nigeria and called on the military to curb it.

The Governor who commended the Chief of Army Staff and his men for their gallantry in fighting insecurity in Nigeria and ensure unity in Nigeria, also lauded the 14 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Ohafia for her coorperation with the State government. He said Abia people and residents are confident in the military and would continue to collaborate with her.

Speaking earlier, the acting General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, Brigadier General Laziz Adeboye said his visit is part of the familiarization tour in line with the custom of the military to visit States within its jurisdiction as a newly appointed G.O.C.

He commended Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for his numerous assistance to the Nigeria Army and assured him that the Army would continue to collaborate with the State to achieve its goal.

Deputy Governor Ude Oko Chukwu, Secretary to Government, Barrister Chris Ezem, Honorable Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Ukpai Agwu, Permanent Secretaries and other top officials of the State Government were part of the ceremony.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
3rd October 2019.

59TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY...IKPEAZU FELICITATES NIGERIANS

The Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, PhD rejoices with the entire citizens of Nigeria on the occasion of the occasion of the 59th Anniversary of our independence as a sovereign nation.

Ikpeazu describes the event as yet another opportunity for Nigerians to thank God for the privilege of nationhood and to rededicate ourselves to those worthy ideals of building a nation that is stronger and more united.

Governor Ikpeazu congratulates the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR and all leaders in the country across all levels on this milestone and urged them to rededicate themselves to the pursuit of the welfare of the people.

The Governor especially wishes the good people of Abia State a restful and joyous Independence Holidays while assuring our people that he remains committed to the relentless quest of a better life for the people of Abia State.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
1st October, 2019.

IKPEAZU DEDICATES VICTORY TO GOD...URGES HIS OPPONENTS TO SHEATH THEIR SWORDS AND JOIN HIM TO BUILD THE STATE

The Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, PhD has expressed his profound gratitude to God Almighty for granting him victory at the Governorship Elections Tribunal which delivered judgement today dismissing in its entirety, the petition filed by APGA and her candidate, Alex Otti.

The Governor who addressed the Press after the judgment this afternoon at the Governor’s Lodge, Government House Umuahia stated that he bore no grudges against those who challenged his election, noting that they did so in exercise of their rights. He however urged them to sheathe swords and join him in the building of the State.

The Governor also thanked the good people of Abia State who elected him overwhelmingly and have stood by him all these while, assuring them that this judicial victory will energize him further to work harder for the peace, order and good government of Abia State.

Governor Ikpeazu thanked the Judges of the Tribunal for standing strong and firm in the defense of the choice made by our people during the last elections, and for resisting any attempt to use the hallowed chambers of the judiciary as a theatre where the democratic yearnings and aspirations of our people are dismembered and destroyed. The Governor also saluted the industry and handwork of his legal team in brilliantly marshaling his case.

“More than ever before, we shall henceforth be relentless in the vigorous pursuit of our developmental agenda for the people of Abia State”. Ikpeazu concluded.

Onyebuchi Ememanka Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
19th September 2019.[code][/code]

AGENDA FOR NEW CHAIRMAN OF ABIA STATE COUNCIL OF TRADITIONAL RULER

By Godwin Adindu

One important arm of our social and political process is the Abia State Traditional Council, the body of traditional rulers. The traditional institution is recognized and treated with due respect not only for being the custodian of our cultural heritage but also for functioning as an advisory body to government. Traditional rulers serve as mediatory organs between groups in the community and therefore assist government in maintaining order and social stability. The rule over autonomous communities and, in this regard, work in liaison with the Local Council in driving the LGA process.

Abia State has been lucky with the history of traditional institution. Right from the inception of our democracy in 1999, the traditional council has been chaired by great patriots and men of outstanding integrity. The traditional council has maintained a good record of effective service in providing a bridge between government and the populace. The first Executive Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu, laid the foundation for a rotational pattern in the appointment of the Chairman of the State traditional Council along the three geopolitical zones. He started his administration with the appointment of Eze Ezo Ukandu from Isiukwuato in Abia North.

The mantle of leadership of the council would later move to Eze Hope Onuigbo from Ossai, Umuahia North in Abia Central. He handed over to His Royal Majesty Eze Ikonne of Aba North in Abia South. After Eze Ikonne, the baton shifted to Eze John Akaniru of Bende in Abia North. Just before he left office, Governor Theodore Orji appointed His Royal Majesty, Eze Eberechi Dick, as the Chairman of the State Traditional Council. Eze Eberechi Dick is from Obingwa in Abia South.

The above analysis shows that in our democratic setting, Abia North has served out two terms in the persons of Eze Ukandu and Eze John Akaniru. Abia South has also served two terms in the persons of Eze Ikonne and Eze Eberechi Dick. Abia Central has only held the position once in the person of Eze Onuigbo from the Umuahia axis of Abia Central.

Therefore, as the tenure of Eze Eberechi Dick, the current holder of the seat of the chairmanship of traditional council winds down, it is incumbent upon the Governor to follow the consist pattern of rotation by berthing the seat at Abia Central and particularly to the Umunneato axis of Abia Central, comprising Isiala Ngwa North, IsialaNgwa South and Osisioma. This will amount to justice distributed.

Agreed that the appointment of the Chairman of the Traditional Council is the prerogative of the Governor and that he has the power to appoint whoever he wants, it will be to the interest of fair play and equity for the seat to shift to Abia Central to equate with the number that had been appropriated to the other zones. There is also a greater demand for justice for the next chairman to come from the Umunneato axis which has never held the position since our democratic process. Ezeukwu of NgwaUkwu, Sir Bernard Enweremadu, was a creation of the military and not a product of the democratic setting. The three Executive Governors of Abia have never considered Umunneato in the distribution of this elevated office.

It will surely be a credit to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu to correct this imbalance and give a sense of recognition to Umunneato in the appointment of the next chairman of Abia State Traditional Council. In these days of clarion call for equitable distribution of both resources and appointment and the new consciousness for political balance, an appointment from this bloc will be timely in assuaging frayed nerves, calm bitter sentiments and nip certain ill-feelings in the bud. It will portray the Governor as rational and considerate and as being responsive to the prevailing sentiments within the polity.

It is imperative to drive this opinion as an agenda seething framework for the Governor. In the new Abia re-orientation process, we will need to take proactive measures to influence policy in the right direction. We still live in the political milieu where contending interest push political leaders to the wall and the basis for political decisions reduced to primordial sentiments.

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu must take hold of power in ensuring that there is balance in the political equation as it relates to the seat of the chairmanship of the Traditional Council. It is by so doing that he will lift the banner of leadership. In this choice, also, he must seek out a man driven by duty and responsibility. Regrettably, the traditional institution today is populated by men of crooked past. The Governor must seek out a man who can stand as symbol and as a role model. The days of decency are here!

Godwin Adindu is the Director-General, Abia State Orientation Agency

PRESS RELEASE

IKPEAZU ADVOCATES FOR MORE INTERNATIONAL SYNERGY AGAINST TERRORISM

The Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, PhD has tasked leaders across the globe to work towards finding a common ground for more collaboration against the global threat of terrorism.

Speaking to newsmen at the end of the Extraordinary Summit of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Terrorism held at Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso, Governor Ikpeazu stated that the growing threats of terrorism can only be squarely tackled when leaders at all levels across the globe come together to fashion out a synergy against the scourge which stands as a potent threat to global peace.

Governor Ikpeazu who attended the Summit as part of the Nigerian delegation called for a shift from a core geographic approach to what he described as a “geostrategic approach” in the war against terror, identifying issues like intelligence gathering and sharing, joint operations, good governance and a structured educational system of young persons as ways that can be adopted in the fight to end global terror.

While identifying terrorism as a real and present threat to peace, democracy and socioeconomic development across the globe, Ikpeazu also tasked world leaders to intensify efforts towards the identification and blocking of sources of funding for terrorists which he described as “the oxygen upon which terrorism thrives”.

He also agreed with participants at the summit on the need for the propagation of “tolerant Islam” as one of the potent ways of fighting terrorism on a global scale.

Speaking further, Governor Ikpeazu said that in Abia State, the strategy of his administration has been to intensify intelligence gathering as a potent approach in the fight against crimes, stating that as a state which is at the confluence of seven states, Abia must be interested in what happens in terms of security in states around her. According to him, the rise in the incidence of kidnapping in the state some years ago was a spill over effect of the activities of militants in the neighboring states of the Niger Delta.

Ikpeazu noted that the sharp drop in criminal activities in Abia State in the last five years is attributable to the grace of God, coupled with deliberate steps by his administration to fight criminality to a standstill through equipping the security forces, strengthening community involvement in fighting crimes and the promotion of policies that mainstream youth economic empowerment through the development of small and medium enterprises.

Governor Ikpeazu announced the establishment of a Ministry of Homeland Security as a fallout of the decision of the Governors of the South East region at their meeting some weeks ago in Enugu to set up state based outfits that will strengthen internal security, assuring that a substantive Commissioner will be appointed to take charge of the new Ministry once the State Legislature approves the list of nominees sent to them, and assured that his administration will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that every inch of the Abia territory is well policed.

Governor Ikpeazu expressed profound appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for finding him fit and proper to be part of the Nigerian delegation to the Summit which has deepened his understanding of the issues around global terrorism as a necessary fallout of local security lapses and pledged the commitment of his administration to strengthen security in the state, especially in view of the direct link between stable security and the drive for investments.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
15th September, 2019.
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

[b]IKPEAZU INAUGURATES ABIA SCHOLARSHIP BOAR[/b]D

In a bid to take education in the state to a greater height, the Governor of Abia state, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has formally inaugurated the members of the Abia State Scholarship Board.

The Governor represented by the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, while speaking at the Executive Council chambers Government House Umuahia, said the committee has been saddled with the responsibility of granting scholarships to sons and daughters of Abia state as a result of the importance which the Ikpeazu-led administration has placed on education.

He also charged the committee to ensure they grant scholarships to well deserving participants and winners based on justice, fairness and equity, and also carry out a thorough assessment and evaluation of individuals in need of the scholarship as well as source for funds from willing partners and donors.

In a vote of thanks, the Chairman of the newly inaugurated Abia State Scholarship Board and former Nigerian Ambassador to Argentina, His Excellency Ambassador Empire Kanu thanked the Governor for finding them worthy of the position saying the importance education cannot be over emphasized and thereby promised to take their assignment seriously so as to actualize the desires of the State Government in education.

He also promised that the board will be guided by a good sense of justice and equity as scholarships will be awarded only on merit as the board will seek ways to collaborate with other agencies and willing donors as well as bring to bare their years of experience as they will be committed to making the people of Abia state proud.

© Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
CPS to the Governor, Abia State

THE NYSC SHOULD MAKE UNIFORMS FOR CORPS MEMBERS IN ABA -------- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has yet again challenged the management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to look inwards and produce uniforms for Corp Members in Aba, stating that there would not get any better quality than the ones made in Aba.

The Governor threw this challenge today in his office while receiving in audience, the new State Coordinator of the NYSC, Lady Bona Fasakin who led the leadership of the Agency in the State on a courtesy visit on the Governor.

Ikpeazu made it clear that the current quality of uniforms worn by Corps Members will be massively improved upon by Aba tailors and at a competitive price, tasking the Agency to give it a try.

“As a scheme that showcases our young people, the NYSC Scheme must lead the way in mainstreaming the ingenuity of our youths”.

The Governor welcomed the new State Coordinator of the Scheme and assured her of the readiness of his administration to continue to support the scheme which remains one of the platforms for strengthening the unity of our country, and assured that he will look into the long list of requests presented by the State Coordinator with a view to resolving them as quickly as possible.
The Governor stated that he had already instructed his Special Adviser on Works, Mr. Richard Nwala to do a thorough feasibility study on how the state government can intervene to improve facilities at the State Permanent Orientation Camp at Umunna, Bende LGA.

Earlier, the State Coordinator of the NYSC, Lady Bona Fasakin told the Governor that she came to formally present herself as the new head of the NYSC in the State and to thank the Governor for the cordial relationship existing between the Agency and the State Government, as well as appeal for the intervention of the Governor in some critical areas of need by the Agency, especially as it concerns the upgrade of infrastructure at their camp.
She pledged the continued support and cooperation of the Agency with the State Government especially through the use of Corps Members in taking programs of the state government to rural areas.

Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Chris Ezem, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Youth Development and Acting Chairman of the NYSC State Governing Board, Mr. Friday Ikpeoha were present at the event.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
26th August 2019.

IKPEAZU RECEIVES HIS NEW NATIONAL IDENTITY CARD...URGES ALL ABIANS TO ENROLL AND GET THEIRS

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has commended the National Identity Management Commission for their efforts towards ensuring that all Nigerians are enrolled in the scheme and for producing a National Identity Card of the highest quality.

The Governor made this remark while receiving a delegation from the Abia State Office of the Commission to came to formally present the Governor with his National Identity Card, having enrolled some months ago.

Ikpeazu used the opportunity to call on Abians to take immediate steps to get enrolled in the scheme and get captured properly, stressing that the data captured from the exercise will play key roles in national planning.

He was particularly delighted at the quality of the card which can be used for a number of things including serving as a form of ATM card for banking transactions both at home and abroad.

The Governor expressed deep concerns that Abia State has registered less than One Million people in the scheme and charged Local Government Chairmen, Traditional Rulers, Religious Leaders, Community Leaders and others to help sensitize our people on the importance of getting registered and obtaining the card.

He further directed that registration centers be set up across the 17 Local Government Areas of the State to give our people easy access to the registration points.

Speaking earlier, the State Director of the Commission, Mr. Loveday Ogbonna informed the Governor that the Commission is fully ready to register as many Abians as possible as part of the mandate of the Commission. He thanked the Governor for the support his administration has consistently given to the Commission and expressed their readiness to expand their registration centers to all parts of the State.

WILL DECONGEST ISHI GATE IN ONE MONTH...WE ARE PROVIDING AN IMMEDIATE ALTERNATIVE ——— IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu today paid an unscheduled visit to the popular ISHI GATE in Umuahia today with a message to the traders to get ready to relocate to the new RELIEF MARKET AT AMUZUKWU in the next one month.

According to the Governor, “This is my first time of coming here to interact with the traders. For sometime now, the issue of decongesting this place has been on the front burner but I didn’t want to force people out of this place without providing them with an alternative. Now, we are developing a relief market at Amuzukwu. Work has reached advanced stages there. We will complete it in about two weeks. Sellers of perishable food items will occupy that market. It has everything you need like water, conveniences, security, etc. We cannot allow allow ISHI GATE to remain a market place. It is a major entry point into Umuahia. The rest of the traders will have to move to the Ubani Market”.

Earlier the Governor had visited the relief market currently being constructed at Amuzukwu where the contractor took him round with strong assurances that work will be completed there in two weeks or even less.

© Onyebuchi Ememanka

UCHE OGBUAGU’S LIFE TYPIFIES THE ABA SPIRIT OF RESILIENCE, COURAGE AND THE WILL TO SUCCEED ---- IKPEAZU

“It took me a very long time to know that Uche Ogbuagu is not from Abia State. I always thought he was from Aba”.

These were the words of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu today at St Stephen’s Anglican Church Amii, Akabo, Ikeduru LGA of Imo State while addressing the congregation that gathered for the thanksgiving service of the Member representing Ikeduru State Constituency at the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Uche Ogbuagu.

Ikpeazu stated that the life of Uche Ogbuagu and his metamorphosis from Comedian to a top flight political stakeholder is a clear demonstration of the Aba spirit of courage, hardwork, resilience and the determination to succeed against all odds.

The Governor recalled Uche’s early days as a Comedian in Aba, stating that he is not surprised at how he turned out because he was always a determined young man and congratulated him on his election as a legislator in the Imo State House of Assembly.
He advised him to remain focused and loyal to his superiors and urged him to remain in touch with his people who have shown him so much love and support.

The Governor also thanked him for setting up a radio station in Aba in addition to the two he set up earlier in Imo State, a move which will create jobs in Abia State and help expand the economy of Aba.

“Like Uche, Ikpeazu continued, “many young men and women who were born and bred in Aba are doing great things all over the world. There is something about Aba that makes her people great. We are truly proud of Uche and these other people and I want to assure them that whenever they call us, we will always answer”. He wished him and his family well.

Imo State Governor, Rt Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, his wife, Lady Ebere, Speaker, Deputy Speaker and members of the Imo State House of Assembly, former Minister of State in charge of the FCT, Chief Chuka Odom, former Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Cosmos Ndukwe, PhD and many others were part of the service which was presided over by the Anglican Bishop of Ikeduru, Rt. Rev Maduwuike.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
18th August, 2019.

IKPEAZU SALUTES CHIEF CHUKU WACHUKU ON HIS BIRTHDAY

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has rejoiced with the pioneer Director General of the National Directorate for Employment, Chief Chuku Wachuku on his birthday.

Describing Chief Wachuku as a “distinguished Nigerian”, Governor Ikpeazu recalled his years of service to our country as the pioneer Director General of the National Directorate for Employment (NDE) during the Military Presidency of General Ibrahim Babangida and how he drove the agency to become a key enabler and provider of jobs for Nigerians. Ikpeazu stated that the strong foundations laid by Chief Wachuku in that agency have remained the pillars that have held the agency from inception till date.

Ikpeazu recalled further the many interventions of Chief Wachuku in the political evolution of our state and noted that the Mbawsi High Chief is an accomplished statesman who has, over the years, made indelible marks in the political development of our state, as one of those elder statesmen whose wise counsel come in handy during challenging times.

Governor Ikpeazu prayed the good Lord to grant Chief Wachuku many more years in excellent health to continue to offer dedicated and selfless services to our state and country.

The Governor was represented at a birthday gathering in honor of the Chief by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Sir Ude Oko Chukwu.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
17th August, 2019.

Attack on Ekweremadu: A Sacrilege, Very Reprehensible....Abaribe

Minority Leader of the Senate, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe has described as reprehensible and utterly sacrilegious the attack on former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu by some persons claiming to be members of IPOB in Nuremberg, Germany.

Abaribe not only condemned the despicable act, but said it smacks of utter ignorance of the prevailing situation at home with regards to what the leaders are doing in the circumstance. " It is a brazen show of ingratitude to a man who has been at the fore front in the struggle for all that is good for the Igbo race".

In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the Minority leader said he and the entire minority caucus in the Senate are appalled on the very nauseating attack on the revered Deputy Senate President, Ekweremadu for no reason whatsoever. "We condemn it", Abaribe said.

Senator Ekweremadu he said has given his all in standing for the Igbo race, particularly when "we stuck out our neck to arrange and stand for surety for the IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

"Obviously this is not how to repay a man, an outstanding leader of men, an unpretentious Igbo leader who has given his all even going as far as deploying his means to arrange for the bail of Nnamdi Kanu, not minding the repercussions to his illustrious political career.

"It is unfortunate. The perpetrators of the attack should know that as Igbos, we respect elders and reverence our leaders. The unwaranted attack is not the character of the Igbo. This is un-Igbo. It is most worrisome and even inconceivable that the attackers will choose an auspicious occasion where our people are celebrating and showcasing our rich culture to exhibit such unbecoming and condemnable conduct in the name of agitation.

"No, that was not agitation, no right thinking human will identify with such behaviour. Yes, Nigeria is going through a horrendous phase, which is a fault line that her leaders, particularly we the Igbo leaders are engaging others to find a lasting solution to.

"Resorting to mob mentality and venting the spleen on our leaders rather creates a vacuum that will leave our people helpless and confused in the circumstance", he said.

Senator Abaribe added that there are rules of engagement in the country when things go awry and that is the way we should go at all times, until we reach an acceptable national consensus in which Senator Ekweremadu will always play a major role.

Remember the popular Igbo saying..."Gbuo dike,,Gbuo dike, ngbe ihe ike mere achowa dike".

However, he appealed to Senator Ekweremadu not to be discouraged in any way, but rather be stoic and take it in its stride as the price often paid in leadership.

“I AM SATISFIED WITH THE RESPONSE OF THE ARMY TO THE KILLING OF THE YOUNG MAN AT OBINGWA”

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has expressed satisfaction with the way the Army High Command dealt with the unfortunate killing of the young man by a soldier at Obingwa last week.

Speaking to SECURITY WATCH AFRICA yesterday, the Governor said that part of the reasons that escalated the crisis was the initial denial by the Army that the killer was not one of them.
“It was a wrong move that naturally backfired. Luckily, the people from that area clearly identified the culprit and even named him. Again, we insisted that justice must be done in the matter. We had to activate every available contact at our disposal to get the attention of the highest authority in the Army and their response has been very satisfactory. Today, the Nigerian Army has formally owned up to the incident. They have tendered a public apology on the incident and have made a commitment to bring the soldier who is in detention, to justice. After their ongoing investigations, the soldier will likely be dismissed from the Army and arraigned before our regular courts for the offense. This has sent a clear message that we care for our citizens and we will take every legitimate step to pursue justice for them in cases like this.
I want to specifically commend the Commander of the 14 Brigade Ohafia and the GOC of the 82 Division at Enugu for their personal intervention in this matter. They were always available for discussions on the way forward in this matter and they were very cooperative. While a life has sadly been lost, the family of the deceased will have some comfort that that person who killed their son will face justice. Again, soldiers will now understand that you cannot just kill someone in Abia State, no matter how lowly placed, and get away with it”.

On how to relate with soldiers who operate in the state, Ikpeazu had this to say...

“It is a misnomer for soldiers to be on the streets. They are not trained to be on the streets and relate with the civil populace. That is the job of the police. Soldiers are on our streets because of our security challenges which appear to have overwhelmed our Police. The soldiers are also here for our own good.
But our people must understand that soldiers are trained to kill. All over the world, nations maintain armies as killing machines. Soldiers make peace through war. Soldiers don’t have IPOs. They don’t take statements like the police. Therefore, our people must deal with soldiers with caution, and not fear. Law abiding citizens have nothing to fear when you see a soldier. If there is need for communication with a soldier, please do so clearly and there won’t be any problem. We must avoid needless confrontations with soldiers. The Army Command has assured me that there won’t be a repeat of that incident but our people must tread with caution when dealing with a soldier, while as a government, we will continue to insist that soldiers operate within bounds of civility and respect for the human rights of our people. We believe that the unfortunate incident of last week is an isolated case that won’t happen again while we look forward to a time when crime rates will go down to their barest minimum and soldiers can return to the barracks where they truly belong”.

Culled from Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
CPS to the Abia State Governor

HOW WE HAVE SUCCESSFULLY KEPT VIOLENT CRIMES IN CHECK IN ABIA —— IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has stated that his administration devised a proactive means of crime prevention which has kept violent crimes in check in Abia State.

Speaking to CRIME WATCH MAGAZINE yesterday, Ikpeazu made it clear that violent crimes like armed robbery and kidnapping have been reduced to their lowest levels across the state because an integrated approach was employed to combat crimes.
“No part of the world is 100% of criminal activities but here in Abia, we can beat our chest that violent crimes like armed robbery and kidnapping have been reduced drastically. This didn’t just happen. They happened because of the approach we adopted. There hasn’t been one single incident of bank robbery in the state since we came into office”.

On herdsmen clashes in the state, the Governor noted that the near absence of herdsmen- farmers clash in the State is the result of his decision to deal differently with the issue.
“What we do here is to nip any potential clash in the bud. We view these clashes as social problems and we create platforms across the state, at all levels to allow all parties to ventilate their grievances and then we take steps to resolve these grievances. So far, this has worked well and we intend to strengthen these processes. My view is that it is better to stop a fight than to separate it”.

He added that his administration’s policy of supporting the work of security forces has paid off well.
“A few weeks ago, we gave 30 patrol vehicles to different security agencies in the state to boost their ability for surveillance and combat readiness. Within the first ten days of that donation, a major milestone was recorded as the State Police Command arrested scores of criminals and recovered a large cache of arms. A large number of those arrested were the people behind the key gangs in the state. It’s an investment that paid off and we will continue to support the men and women of our security forces. We are also looking into certain issues around their welfare. We are providing a brand new headquarters for the Zone 9 Command of the Nigeria Police in Umuahia as well as renovating some residential buildings at the 14 Brigade Headquarters of the Nigerian Army at Ohafia in addition to fixing some of their internal roads. All of these are geared towards motivating these men for more work”.

On the award by SECURITY WATCH AFRICA as Security Friendly Governor, Ikpeazu had this to say...

“We take issues of security very seriously here. We understand clearly that we need peace and security if we are to succeed in making our state safe for investments to thrive. We will constantly review our strategies and will continue to collaborate with all relevant agencies in this direction. If our modest efforts have caught the eye of independent bodies, then glory to God. It can only spur us to work harder”.

Culled from Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to Abia State Governor

Aba Killings: "I will mobilise Opinion for Justice".......Abaribe

Senate Minority leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe has vowed to pursue and mobilize national and international pressure to ensure justice is done for the family of the slain Okada rider, Mr Chimaobi Nworgu in Aba penultimate week by a killer soldier, Corporal Ajayi Johnson.

Abaribe spoke when he visited the family and the actual crime scene in Umuokereke Ngwa in Obingwa local government council of Abia State on Monday.

Moved by the pitiable site of the traumatised widow of the brutally executed young man, Abaribe vowed that he will ensure that the killer of Chimaobi is brought to justice and pay for his crime.

He wondered how a Nigerian soldier who was detailed to man a checkpoint in Aba for the protection of the people, will wilfully with a wicked and sinister motive kidnap another 'Okada rider' to chase chimaobi for over five kilometres to kill him right in his village "in the heartland of Ngwa land", for just N100 bribe".

"It is an embarrassment to the country, to the Nigerian Army and an insult to our people. We cannot condone this any further. I will surely bring this heinous crime by the said Corporal Ajayi to both national and international attention. Nobody can sweep this under the carpet", he said.

The ranking Senator however said he was encouraged by the fact that the Nigerian Army has taking responsibility and confirmed that Chimaobi was indeed murdered by one of their own, Corporal Ajayi Johnson.

" That means that the case is clear and we now expect a quick dispensation of Justice. I have confidence in the military, particularly the army for their discipline and acknowledged fortrightness in handling issues that tend to smear Military/Civilians relation.

"My people are in pains, they are now living in fears over the brutality of the soldiers who statutorily are empowered to protect the people. It shouldn't be so. I am appealing to the authorities to put a stop to this. I will definitely not rest until this is stopped and the killer of Chimaobi faces the punishment for his crime", Abaribe said.

Continuing, the lawmaker decried the security situation in the country and wondered why the Military would be enmeshed in the ugly mix, with emphasis to the nauseating killing of some police officers in Taraba by some soldiers.

"It is not a good narrative, that our own soldiers, once our pride in the international defence community will now become a recurring decimal in the extra judicial murder of our citizens. No it shouldn't be so", he added.

Meanwhile, Senator Abaribe cautioned the youths not to take the laws into their hands but to remain calm, promising to table this matter on the floor of the Senate for national input, even as he assured to interface with the military headquarters until the killer of Chimaobi faces the music.

ABIA MOSLEMS THANK IKPEAZU FOR KEEPING ABIA SAFE FOR EVERYONE

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has urged moslems in the state to continue to live in peace and go about their businesses with the assurance that government will continue to ensure the safety of everyone, enjoining them to support government by fulfilling their civic obligations.

Governor Ikpeazu stated this when he received a delegation of Moslems in Abia State led by the Chief Imam of Abia State, Sheik Ali Ukaiwo at Government House Umuahia.

Governor Ikpeazu who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu assured the delegation that his administration will provide a level playing ground for all Abians irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation.

NDDC, POLITICAL INSTITUTION?

- Kennedy Onyenma

“NDDC has become a political institution...” These were the exact words of Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike, the Governor of Rivers State, when the Professor Brambaifa led board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) paid him a courtesy visit at the Government house in Port Harcourt.On another related visit to Professor Ben Ayade, the Governor of Cross River State,by the NDDC management led by the Ag. Managing Director, Professor Brambaifa, Professor Ayade slammed the commission for treating his state "unfairly". According to Governor Ayade, the story of NDDC and Cross Rivers State have been that of “melancholy". In his words, the people of Cross River State “have been reduced to want in body, soul and spirit”.

The experience of Rivers and Cross River States, put together, will not equate the disservice of NDDC to Abia State. Even before the Brambaifa led board was appointed, Abia State have been victims of the dual misfortunes of "unfairness" and "melancholy". At least Rivers and Cross River States have had the honor of a courtesy visit! Abia State,on the other hand, have neither received "courtesy" talk less of a "visit" ! Indeed, there is scarcely any significant evidence of NDDC presence in Abia State, but for some subpar projects located in few communities within Abia State.

Agreed that the collegiality needed in the management of the NDDC is lacking in most of the States,however,the Abia story, in all ramification, is a sorry state that should be addressed with dispatch.

For benefit of hindsight, NDDC is a creation of an Act, of the National Assembly, in accordance to the provisions of Section 58 (5) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Act, cited as the Niger Delta Development Commission Act 2000, repealed the Oil Mineral Producing Areas Development Commission Decree 1998. Among other things, the NDDC Act 2000, is established to ensure an effective use of the sums received from the allocation of the Federal account.The fund is meant to tackle both the ecological and the infrastructural problems arising from oil explorations in Niger Delta areas and for "connected purposes".

By virtue of section 2(1) (b) (i) of the Act, Abia State, as well as Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa,Cross River,Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo and Rivers States are members of the NDDC. It was for this Act that Abia State was privileged to have the Pioneer Chairmanship of the governing Board, in the person of Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, in line with the rotational clause of Section 4 (a),going by alphabetical order.

Also provided in the Act, 11(1) (a) is that an Advisory Committee, which shall consist of the Governors of the Member States of the commission and two other persons as may be determined, from time to time, shall be formed by the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. According to the Act, the primary functions of the Advisory Committee is to advise the board and monitor the activities of the commission and make rules regulating its own proceedings.

It is pathetic,that many years down the line, the Governors have not been allowed, to either perform their statutory Advisory functions, to the board, or monitor the projects allocated to the respective states.In most cases the governors are denied fore-knowledge of the projects earmarked for execution in thier states until such projects are awarded and the contractors mobilised to the sites! Most often some of these projects are either abandoned or poorly executed for lack of proper monitoring.

Professor Nelson Brambaifa led NDDC board should prove that his board means well. Let him convince Nigerians that the the non-constitution of the statutory Advisory committee , which ordinarily should consist of the Governors of the NDDC states, is not pre-meditated to sideline majority of the PDP controlled South South States, as alleged by Gov. Wike. He should,not only make haste to advise the President to do the needful, he and his board should also be seen to have done the needful.

As an intervention Agency, the primary duty of the NDDC is to assist the State Governors develop the states. As such, the programs and projects of the commission should be seen to compliment, rather than, contradict the good intentions of the States who ,albeit streneously, are doing their best to alleviate the suffering of people. Any attempt,therefore, by the authorities of NDDC, to portray the commission as political or partisan will be counter production and could be seen as an attempt to circumvent the spirit and the letter of the Act institutionalising NDDC. On that note Governor Ayade's caveat will be applicable: "As Governor, I have the supretending and overriding power over the land in Cross River, which I hold in trust for the people.Therefore, by the provisions of the law, I have the powers to stop any project in the state. It is part of the constitutional provisions under the NDDC Act that the NDDC will have regular meetings with the various stakeholders including the Governors that form part of the governing board”.

There is no gainsaying that the states making up the NDDC are in dire need of accelerated development in various facets of her economy,hence,there ought to be a concerted effort, by the Ag. Managing Director and CEO of NDDC, Professor Nelson Brambaifa and his board, to urgently reach out to the Governors to discuss terms and modalities needed to stimulate growth and stability in the region.

Given that the States are also critical stakeholders of NDDC, the current board should look inwards and identify some key projects and programs of the States that are in line with the visions of the Commission. Projects that are meant to bequeath long lasting legacies should be supported. Uppermost in mind are projects on human capital development, Road infrastructure, Industrialisation and Power.

Abia state, like many other states, are indeed ripe for this collaboration. The Governor Ikpeazu's administration have set the framework for a prosperous economy.He is working his talk of transforming Aba into the economic hub of Eastern Nigeria as well as the China of Africa. Considering where Aba was, prior to Governor Ikpeazu's take over in 2015,one can attest to the fact that remarkable progress have been made in Abia State and Aba, in particular.

Thus far, Governor Ikpeazu has shown that he has the will and the strategy to take Abia State to the promised land. What, perhaps,may be in short supply is the means,in terms of adequate finance.

Considering the road infrastructure,for instance,Governor Ikpeazu's government have completed over 70 Road projects in Aba and other parts of the state, while over 94 road projects are at different levels of completion. The big deal about road construction in Aba is that the hitherto intractable Ife-obara pond made road construction, in Aba, very herculean .The pond,which caused perrenial flooding along major roads in Aba,at some point, became mysterious. But the story has changed now following Governor Ikpeazu's Caterpilar revolution that have provided permanent cure.Having resolved that intractable Ife-Obara challenge future construction works,in Aba, will now be tackled with ease.

Apart from the provisions of Road infrastructure, Governor Ikpeazu has also invested on manpower and the Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSME) development. So far, budding youths have received different levels of skill acquisition/training within and outside Nigeria. Some of the 30 Shoe makers sponsored to China are now gainfully employed while some have employed others. Just recently, one of those trained in China received a meritorious award, while another Shoe maker, by name Prosper Chidinma Erem,is doing very well in her Shoe business.

Power within Aba and Ariara market have significantly improved. As a result, many business owners are relocating to Aba. These developments are occasioned by the construction of 5 mega watts power plant that provides uninterrupted power supply to over 37,000 shops at the Ariaria International Market. Completion of the ambituous Alaoji Geometric Power project is also on top gear,according to the information released, recently, by Professor Bath Nnaji.

Indeed States, like Rivers and Abia, are already making reasonable progress.The least the Brambaifa led NDDC board can do is to support them.

Given an equitable distribution of the resources available to the commission,coupled with robust synergy among key stakeholders of the NDDC, greater success, in the economic development of the States, is surely imminent.

By collaborating with the Niger Delta Governors, regardless of party affiliations, the NDDC will have another opportunity to right her wrongs and possibly redress the distrust and despondency arising from long years of inaction and neglect by the commission.

Kennedy Onyenma, Public Relations Practitioner and Marketing Communications Expert

IKPEAZU CONDOLES WITH HON. ADIELE EKEKE ON THE UNFORTUNATE DEATH OF HIS WIFE AND TWO CHILDREN

The Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, PhD has expressed deep shock at the news of the death of the wife and two children of Honorable Adiele Ekeke, a Commissioner in the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC and a political leader in Ukwa East LGA of the State.

The lady and her two children were reported to have been traveling along the Enugu - Port Harcourt Road yesterday afternoon when their vehicle got involved in a ghastly motor accident that claimed their lives. Luckily, the third child survived the accident but is currently in intensive care where doctors are battling to save her life.

Governor Ikpeazu is deeply saddened by this tragedy and prays the Almighty God, the great comforter to console Hon. Ekeke and grant him the fortitude to bear this great loss. He prays the good Lord to intervene and save the life of the child who is battling with her life presently.

The Governor also sends his personal condolences and that of his family, government and people of Abia State to the larger Ekeke family of Ndoki, the entire people of Ukwa East LGA, the management and staff of ASOPADEC over this sad incident.

[i]Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq[/i]
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
12th August, 2019.

Adaelu visits the family of the recently killed Okada Man by the Nigeria Army says, Late Mr. Chimaobi Nwogu is another victim of extortion, intimidation and continuous killing of Nigeria citizens by the Nigeria security...

The Nigerian House of Reps Member representing the good and hardworking people of Obingwa, Osisioma & Ugwunagbo federal constituency, Abia State who recently sponsored a Motion against Police Brutality visits the family of Mr. Chimaobi Nwogu (the Okada man) who was killed by a soldier in Aba...says Mr. Nwogu is another victim of extortion, intimidation and continuous killing of Nigeria citizens by the Nigeria security.

It will be recalled that the recommendations of the Motion by Hon. Solomon Adaelu on Police Brutality on defenceless and hapless Citizens of the Nation was recently adopted in Police Reform Bill passed by the Senate. Most of the recommendations that are predicted mostly on the adherence to Rules of Engagement by the Nigeria Security while dealing with the Civilians were given express approval.

Hon. Adaelu while encouraging/supporting the family, lamented that it is disheartening that in this period of our National Development that a lot of people have died on our highways for their refusal to offer bribe as low as N50, N100 to the Police or any other Security Agency. That this eloquently testify how cheap the Citizens life have become in Nigeria.

Hon. Adaelu while condemning the worrisome situation said that Nigeria has become a flash point in Africa where life has become short and brutish due to unprofessional conduct of our Security Agencies while on duty...

Barr. Ekele Nwaohamuoh, Uzoukwa Ebere and others were present during this visit.

May the Soul of Mr. Chimaobi Nwogu rest in peace.

IKPEAZU GREETS MOSLEMS AT EID EL FITRI...URGES THEM TO PRAY FOR THE PEACE OF OUR COUNTRY

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has sent a message of congratulations to Nigerian moslems, especially those resident in Abia State on the occasion of Eid El Fitri.

Governor Ikpeazu notes that Eid El Fitri is a time moslems commemorate faith and sacrifice as bedrocks of the Islamic faith, and urged moslems, to bring to bear in their personal lives, these strong virtues.

Of greater importance, according to Ikpeazu, is the need for Moslems at this critical time in our national life to pray for peace in our country, especially in those parts of our country where insurgency and sectarian violence appear to be on the increase.

In particular, Governor Ikpeazu salutes moslems in Abia State for the peaceful way they have lived and carried on business in the state over the years, assuring them of the commitment of his administration towards the overall development of the state. He urged them to continue to support the government of the day and fulfill their civic obligations.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
11th August 2019.