MAN Chapters Take Industrial Woes to Abia Governor Otti
Manufacturers under the Abia/Imo and Rivers/Bayelsa chapters of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) have presented a catalogue of operational hurdles to Abia State Governor Alex Otti. The chairmen of the two chapters, Obasi Ekeagbara and Vincent Okuku, led the delegation to the governor's office in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
The problems enumerated by the manufacturers include the soaring cost of energy, difficulty in accessing foreign exchange, escalating inflation, funding shortages, insecurity, and the burden of multiple demands from host communities as well as unauthorised demand notices.
The association appealed to the state government to intensify its drive to resuscitate more dormant industries and to involve MAN where appropriate. It also requested the establishment of industrial clusters across the state's three senatorial zones.
Additionally, MAN urged the government to reinforce measures against illegal levies and to assist struggling industries in returning to full production. The manufacturers praised the governor for his efforts in revitalising the state's economy.
They specifically commended him for facilitating a N10 billion credit facility for Small and Medium Enterprises through the Bank of Industry (BoI) and pledged their continued support.
Anyatonwu Azubuike, chief executive officer of Libracin Natural Medicine Industry Limited, expressed the members' dedication to backing the governor's re-election bid. "We are very happy with the way you have been supporting industries to develop, making it easier for manufacturers in Abia and Imo to have a smooth run in manufacturing," he said.
In his response, Governor Otti stated that his administration's investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education and other sectors were intended to create a conducive environment for increased production and industrialisation.
He assured the manufacturers of his government's resolve to tackle the issues hindering industrial activities, especially electricity and access to capital.
The governor noted that his administration was redirecting focus from consumption and trading towards production and manufacturing, stressing that manufacturing is essential for sustainable economic growth.
"We want to encourage production. While technology could transform the processes of doing business, what you cannot replace is manufacturing," he said. "You can replace the process, you can replace the mode, but you must have manufacturing. If there is anything the administration can do to help you, don't hesitate to ask."
Otti also revealed that the government was exploring alternative power sources and encouraged manufacturers in the state to leverage the facility and other interventions.
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