In a move to advance the economic fortunes of Abia State, Governor Dr. Alex Otti, has unveiled the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council (AGEAC) as a strategic component of his administration’s developmental agenda.
Governor Otti has selected 20 distinguished individuals of global repute to form the council, dedicated to transforming Abia into a self-sustaining economic hub. The appointees include renowned figures such as Arunma Oteh, His Highness Khaleefa Muhammad Sanusi II, Bolaji Balogun, and others, with Ms. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Dr. Benedict Oramah serving as Honourary Advisors.
It was stated that five members, drawn from the State Executive Council, will represent the government on the Advisory Council. They include the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna; Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Kingsley Anosike; Commissioner for Finance, Mr Michael Akpara; and the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu.
The announcement, made through a statement from the Governor’s Office, highlighted the neglect and fragility of Abia State’s economy over the years. Governor Otti’s administration, which commenced on May 29, 2023, is actively engaged in socio-economic revitalization, aiming to rebuild the state from the economic challenges of the past two decades.
The newly appointed council members, chosen for their wealth of experience in diverse sectors, are expected to play a crucial role in shaping policies that drive innovation, attract investments, and ensure overall economic resilience. The statement emphasized the importance of grounding the state’s economic development strategy in a deep understanding of both local and global economic dynamics.
According to the statement, the Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council is set to provide strategic insights and recommendations to guide economic and investment policies. Working closely with relevant state commissioners, the council aims to address unique challenges and leverage opportunities for Abia State, positioning it as a leader in innovation and economic development regionally and globally.
The statement also outlined the composition of the Council’s Secretariat, which will be managed by Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu and Mr. Charles Egonye, supported by Mrs. Victoria Onwubiko and Ms. Amaka Okonkwo from the private sector.
“Our programmes are already re-positioning and rebuilding Abia State as the economic pride of Nigeria. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that its economic development strategy is founded not only on a thorough understanding of the local economic environment but also on the dynamics of the emerging forces now shaping the future of the global economy.
“The newly appointed members bring a wealth of experience and expertise in various sectors, enhancing the diversity and dynamism of the Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council. Their collective knowledge will play a pivotal role in shaping policies that drive innovation, attract investments, form solid partnerships, and ensure the overall economic resilience of our great state,” the statement declared.
