The Abia State Government has announced the commencement of a major industrial project and new agricultural programs aimed at accelerating economic growth and improving food security across the state.
Briefing journalists after this week’s State Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, revealed that the government will begin the construction of a 10,000-barrel-per-day modular refinery at the Abia Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP) located in Ukwa West by May 2025. The refinery project, to be executed by HSI, is expected to boost the state’s industrial base, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the local economy. Preparatory work at the site, including bush clearing and compensation to landowners, is currently ongoing.
In a related development, the Ministry of Agriculture will, next week, launch the wet season rice farming programme under its In-Growers scheme. The initiative targets more than 8,500 hectares of land across key rice-producing areas in Abia North. Over 400 verified farmers in Ndi-Okereke, Abam, are cultivating 500 hectares, while 150 hectares in Owerenta are already under active cultivation.
To encourage broader participation and transparency in the management of recovered government-owned plantations, the state has extended the deadline for prospective investors to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) to May 15, 2025.
Addressing past irregularities in the disbursement of agricultural support, the Ministry has also introduced a new data-driven farmer enumeration system. This ensures that only verified, geo-mapped, and authentic farmers benefit from government support programs, thereby eliminating fraudulent claims and political interference.
“These actions reflect Governor Alex Otti’s unwavering commitment to economic revival, agricultural transformation, and transparent governance,” Prince Kanu said.
The Commissioners for Petroleum and Agriculture, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, and the Special Assistant on Media and Publicity were also present at the briefing.
