Manufacturers from Abia, Imo, Rivers and Bayelsa have presented a list of operating problems to Abia State Governor Alex Otti. They also asked him to keep reviving dormant factories in the state.
The Visit
Members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) called on the governor at his Nvosi office in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. The Abia/Imo chapter was led by its chairman, Obasi Ekeagbara. Vincent Okuku led the Rivers/Bayelsa chapter.
Problems Listed
The manufacturers said their businesses are under pressure from several directions:
- High energy costs
- Limited access to foreign exchange
- Rising inflation
- Difficulty raising funds
- Insecurity
- Repeated demands from host communities
- Unauthorised demand notices
What They Asked For
MAN wants the state to keep reviving collapsed industries and to involve the association where it makes sense. It also asked for industrial clusters in each of Abia’s three senatorial zones.
The group urged tougher action against illegal levies. It further asked for help for struggling factories so they can return to full production.
Praise and a Pledge
The delegation praised Otti for his handling of the state’s economy. They also thanked him for helping to secure a N10 billion credit line for small and medium enterprises through the Bank of Industry (BoI).
Anyatonwu Azubuike, chief executive of Libracin Natural Medicine Industry Limited, said members would back the governor’s re-election bid. He said Otti has made life easier for manufacturers in Abia and Imo.
Otti’s Response
The governor said his spending on infrastructure, health, education and other sectors is meant to create conditions for more production and industrial growth.
He promised to tackle the problems raised, especially electricity and access to capital. His administration, he said, is moving its focus from consumption and trading towards production.
“What you cannot replace is manufacturing,” Otti said. Technology may change how business is done, he added, but a economy still needs factories.
He said the state is looking at alternative power sources. He urged manufacturers to make use of that facility and other interventions.
