Governor Otti Sets To Partner Israeli Agricultural Investors, Eager To Fast-Track Project Implementation
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed strong interest in partnering with Israeli agricultural investors to boost the state’s agro-economic productivity, stating that he is eager to see the swift commencement of the proposed investment.
Governor Otti made this known when he received a delegation from ONIDA Development, led by its Managing Director, Mr. Kidron Israel, at Government House, Umuahia.
The Governor assured the visiting delegation of the state’s readiness to provide land as equity for the agricultural initiative, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment and innovation.
“From your presentation and what I have seen, it is clear that we are going to work together. I’m in a hurry to see this initiative commence and boost productivity in Abia,” Otti said.
“Land belongs to the government, and we are willing to provide it. Even if anything is to be paid, it will be insignificant. That provision can stand as our equity in this partnership,” he added.
He instructed the delegation to immediately engage with the state’s team to work out a clear roadmap for the project’s implementation. He noted that vegetable and fish production were promising areas to begin with, while other sectors such as poultry and livestock could follow.
Governor Otti also commended the delegation for choosing Abia as an investment destination, describing Abians as enterprising people who thrive when given the right environment.
“Our people are industrious and don’t depend on government. Once there is an enabling environment, they excel. This is what our administration is committed to providing,” he noted.
In his remarks, Mr. Kidron Israel, Managing Director of ONIDA Development, said the group was seeking land and support from the government to enable them kick-start the project, while assuring they already have access to financing.
He stated that Abia was chosen based on Governor Otti’s pro-investment reputation and the visible reforms being executed under his leadership.
Also speaking, the National Coordinator of the Nigeria-Israel Forum, Mrs. Florence Osuji, said the visit was aimed at introducing Israeli agricultural expertise and technology to strengthen food security in the state. She highlighted areas of interest to include fish farming, poultry, vegetable cultivation, and other agro-based enterprises.
Key members of the Abia State Government present during the meeting included the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze; Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Uwaoma Ukandu; and the Principal Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer, Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu.
