Governor Alex Otti revealed that Abia State is shifting its focus from mere waste collection and disposal to innovative recycling and energy production as part of its economic revitalization strategy.
He shared this update during his October monthly press briefing titled “Governor Otti addresses Abians,” held in Umuahia, the state’s capital.
Otti explained that comprehensive feasibility assessments for the “waste-to-wealth initiative” have been finalized. This program aims to enhance key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
He stated, “We are engaging with investors to transform waste into methane gas and electricity, drawing inspiration from successful models implemented in Europe and other developed nations.”
Since assuming office in 2023, Otti declared a sanitation emergency and expressed satisfaction with the achievements of the State Environmental Protection Agency.
The agency has made significant strides in ensuring cleanliness and sanitation across major urban centers including Aba, Umuahia, Ohafia, and various local government areas.
Furthermore, he is in talks with the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria regarding the acquisition and revitalization of dormant industries such as Aba Star Paper Mills, Modern Ceramics in Umuahia, International Glass Industry, and Aba Textile Mills.
“Our objective is to rehabilitate these enterprises and transfer their management to professionals through Public-Private Partnership frameworks,” Otti explained.
“This approach is expected to generate employment opportunities, boost the state’s Gross Domestic Product, increase Internally Generated Revenue, and alleviate poverty within the region.”
