…as Germany finalises plans to invest in Abia

ABIA State Governor Alex Otti says there is no better place to invest in Nigeria than Abia State, adding that the South-Eastern State has what it takes to partner investors and drive the economy.

Governor Otti stated this while receiving in audience, Weert Borner, the Consul General of Republic of Germany to Nigeria. He said that there is a lot of opportunities in Abia yearning for partnership with credible organisations.

The governor said that the time is ripe for investors to explore opportunities in the State, citing ongoing reforms and infrastructure improvements as key drivers of economic growth.

He also highlighted the vast opportunities available in key sectors, including manufacturing, waste recycling, SME development, and agro-processing. He emphasised that Aba holds vast potential for SMEs, particularly in leather, textiles, and fashion which investors can explore.

“There is no better place for those SMEs than Aba. And they can bring in a whole lot in terms of leather, textiles, fashion, etcetera.

“We are ready to support investors by providing land, infrastructure, and policy backing to ensure their success. Our approach is based on partnerships, not dependency on grants.

“We bring our value to the table, and our investors bring theirs, creating a larger shared value”, Otti added.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships that would drive industrial and economic development in the State.

“My team and I will maintain close contact with you, and whenever companies seek a new location, we encourage you to direct them our way,”, he stated.

Governor Otti said that as part of his strategy to create a business-friendly environment, the State Government had finalised the acquisition of the Electricity Distribution Company in Umuahia ring-fence to address power supply challenges.

He added that Geometric Power Limited was set to provide a long-term solution for Aba, ensuring stable electricity for industries and Small and Medium-scale Enterprises(SMEs) in the ring-fence.

Governor Otti maintained that with strategic initiatives, his Government would be positioning the State as a prime investment destination in Nigeria and assured investors of a more conducive and profitable business environment.

He however directed the Commissioner for Lands and Housing to make land available for the establishment of a Mosquito-Treated Net Factory to solve the challenge of location of the already willing company.

Earlier, Weert Borner, the Consul General of Germany to Nigeria, expressed strong interest in fostering economic collaboration between German Companies and Abia State, citing the State’s commitment to good governance as a key factor in attracting foreign investments.

He highlighted that German companies offer high-quality products and expertise across multiple sectors, presenting significant opportunities for economic growth in Abia.

According to the Consul General, German firms are particularly keen on agriculture, environmental sustainability, health, waste management, energy, vocational training, and digital transformation.

He said that in the agriculture sector, German companies are exploring investments in machinery, renewable energy applications, and modern farming techniques to boost productivity.

Borner also said that the environmental sector, particularly recycling and the green industry are other major focus for investment. He added that chemical recycling innovations being pioneered by Biota Sediment Accumulation Factor(BASF) in Lagos could be expanded to other States, including Abia.

He revealed that BASF had been a key player in the fight against malaria through its production of coated mosquito nets, adding that the company would be seeking a location in Nigeria to establish a Mosquito-Treated Net Factory, which could create jobs and boost the local economy.

Weert Borner, who came in company of his wife, had earlier visited Aba and had interactions with the Aba business community, visiting some industries to explore areas of opportunities and partnerships.