Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti says the Geometric Power Project inaugurated by his administration on Monday in Osisioma has the potential of rejuvenating economic and social growth in the state.
The governor stated this in his speech during the project inauguration done by Vice President, Kashim Shettima.
The governor while emphasizing that the project is very special and dear to his heart added that it will position the state as a preferred destination for enterprise growth, family life, and leisure.
He applauded the former governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu, for giving the initial waivers to Geometric, which helped in de-risking the transaction.
He added, “I thank specifically, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, CFR, who was the Chairman of Diamond Bank at the time, and who played a significant role in the resolution of the ownership tussle of the ring fence tussle. I cannot fail to recognise Prof. Okey Oramah, who got Afreximbank, his bank, to support the project with the required funding to get to the last mile. Many thanks to Engnr Mele Kyari, the GMD of NNPC, who God used to solve the gas problem.
“This city is very pivotal to the economic trajectory of Nigeria and the West Africa region, and I knew for a fact that if we got the fundamentals right, Aba would not just be a city that makes millionaires of dreamers, it would become, a land of solutions to the many socio-economic problems that assail us – including worrisome level of youth unemployment and pervasive poverty.
“My faith in Aba as an economic powerhouse meant that when I first saw the proposal for the Geometric Integrated Power Plant, I knew I had to be involved immediately because if just 50% of what had been proposed could be achieved, the industrial output from this great city and its environs would triple and millions of new jobs would be created directly and indirectly in the short to medium term.
“We have, therefore, gathered to celebrate the actualisation of a lofty dream, the beginning of a new epoch and the reaffirmation of our limitless abilities as a people. Certainly, the success of this power project will not just validate my unyielding belief in Aba but would send a clear signal to local and international investors that Aba is open for business.”
See photos of the event below..
