Simbi Kesiye Wabote, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), has lauded Governor Alex Otti of Abia State for the establishment of the Abia Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP) in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area.
The Abia Industrial Innovation Park is a visionary project encompassing a range of facilities. It includes a Technology Innovation Centre, a Modern Vehicle Assembly Plant, a Power Generating Plant, and a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Manufacturing Plant. It will also include an LPG and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Tank Farm, Haulage, and Warehousing Facility. Additionally, it will also have an Agricultural Storage and Processing Facility, a Mini Seaport, a Five-star Hotel, and a carbon-neutral residential estate.
Infrastructure To Be Provided To Businesses Located In Abia Industrial Innovation Park.
Under this scheme, infrastructure like power supply and utilities such as road networks, water, and waste treatment are provided to businesses located on the site. This shared-services approach allows manufacturers to focus solely on their core business activities, without the added burden of power generation and infrastructure development. He referred to the local content philosophy of the Federal Government, emphasizing domestication and domiciliation of high value-adding activities. He explained how the Nigerian Oil and Gas Park Scheme (NOGaPS) was established to address challenges such as high production costs for local manufacturers.
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During the groundbreaking ceremony, Wabote expressed his belief that the park would stimulate industrial production. Additionally, it would position Abia State as a formidable contender in the global market. He highlighted the AIIP’s potential to attract both national and international investors. This could significantly contribute to the state and the nation’s economy.
Wabote emphasized the importance of fostering a robust manufacturing sector. In fact, it not only creates job opportunities but also generates a ripple effect on the economy. Provided the right policies and mechanisms are in place to reduce production costs.
Wabote assured the Abia state government of the NCDMB’s readiness to share their experience and expertise. He also revealed that the pilot phases of NOGaPS in Bayelsa State and Cross River State are nearing completion.
In his address, Governor Alex Oti outlined the clear vision of harnessing the abundant oil and gas resources within Ukwa. This will be done for the economic development of the communities within the State and the connected regions. He expressed his administration’s determination to bring this vision to fruition. Additionally, he called for the full cooperation of the people of the state so as to make it a success.
