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Abia Government Moves to Revive Dead Industries to Tackle Unemployment, Boost Revenue
Abia State Government has begun moves to revive long-abandoned industries across the state as part of a broad plan to fight youth unemployment, reduce poverty, and boost internally generated revenue (IGR).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Governor Alex Otti said the revival effort targets several moribund industries, including Star Paper Mills, Aba Textile Mills, International Equitable Industries, and Afro Beverages. The initiative will combine government ownership, private investment, and youth training in small and medium-size enterprises (MSMEs).
“Our plan is to bring these industries back to life,” Otti said in Umuahia. “We have started discussions with the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) on the Star Paper Mill and other factories. Under our watch, they will not remain dead assets.”
The governor noted that many of the industries were once major employers and economic engines in Aba and other cities but collapsed years ago due to poor infrastructure, mismanagement, and lack of investment.
Industrial Revival Plan
The state government recently secured approval from AMCON to take over the moribund Star Paper Mills, one of the biggest industrial complexes in Aba before its collapse. The government has also formally acquired other defunct factories, including the Aba Textile Mills, as part of a broader industrial revival strategy.
According to the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu, the administration intends to work with private investors to modernize and operate the industries.
“When fully revived, these industries will create thousands of jobs for Abians and generate more revenue for the state,” Kanu said. “They will also help reduce poverty by empowering young people with stable employment.”
The plan also includes vocational training programs for youths in manufacturing, leatherworks, and fabric production to prepare them for opportunities in the reactivated industries.
Background
Abia State, once known as an industrial hub in the southeast, has struggled for years with the collapse of major factories. Many industries that once sustained Aba’s economy shut down due to erratic power supply, decaying infrastructure, and poor maintenance.
The collapse contributed to high unemployment and low IGR. Reports show that Abia’s revenue generation lags behind several neighboring states, forcing the government to rely heavily on federal allocations.
Economic experts say reviving local industries could help change this trajectory. They note that if the state can restore production and attract investors, it could stimulate small businesses and create a ripple effect across the economy.
Government Commitment
Governor Otti said his administration is determined to return Aba and Umuahia to their former status as strong industrial and commercial centers. He also promised that revived industries will operate transparently and efficiently under public-private partnerships.
“We are not just reviving old factories; we are rebuilding the foundation of our economy,” Otti said. “Our goal is to make Abia a production center again — a place where goods are made, not just sold.”
The government said it will also invest in key infrastructure — such as electricity, road networks, and security — to support industrial growth and attract local and foreign investors.
Impact and Next Steps
If successful, the revival plan is expected to provide direct and indirect employment for thousands of youths. It could also increase the state’s IGR through taxes, levies, and industrial operations, while reducing the migration of young people in search of jobs elsewhere.
The state has already initiated talks with investors interested in the Aba Textile Mills and International Equitable Industries. Officials said more details will be announced once final agreements are reached.
Economic observers say the move could mark a turning point for Abia if managed effectively. The state’s industrial revival may serve as a model for other states grappling with similar economic decline.
For now, the focus remains on getting idle factories working again — and ensuring that Abia’s long-dormant industries finally return to productivity and prosperity.
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.
He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.
According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.
He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.
He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.
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