Manufacturers Meet Gov Otti, List Challenges

The Abia/Imo and Rivers/Bayelsa chapters of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) have taken their members’ challenges to Abia State governor, Dr Alex Otti.

The chairmen of the chapters, Obasi Ekeagbara and Vincent Okuku stated this when they led the members on a visit to the governor at his Nvosi office, Isiala Ngwa South local government area.
The challenges include high energy costs, limited access to foreign exchange, rising inflation, funding constraints, insecurity, and multiple demands from host communities and unauthorised demand notices.

They urged the state government to sustain its efforts at reviving more moribund industries and ensuring MAN’s participation where necessary.

MAN also called for the setting up ofh industrial clusters in the state’s three senatorial zones.

The association further urged the strengthening of measures against unauthorised levies, support for distressed industries to return to full production and commended the governor for turning around the economy of the state.

While commending him for facilitating a N10 billion credit line for Small and Medium Enterprises through the Bank of Industry (BoI) in the state, they assured him of their support.

The chief executive officer of Libracin Natural Medicine Industry Limited, Anyatonwu Azubuike, said the members are committed to supporting the re-election bid of the governor.

“We are very happy with the way you have been supporting industries to develop, making it easier for manufacturers in Abia and Imo to have a smooth run in manufacturing,” he added.
Responding, Otti said his administration’s investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education and other sectors were aimed at creating enabling environment for increased production and industrialisation.
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‎The governor assured manufacturers of the administration’s commitment to addressing challenges affecting industrial activities, particularly electricity and access to capital.
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‎He said the administration was shifting attention from consumption and trading to production and manufacturing, noting that manufacturing remains critical to sustainable economic growth.
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‎His words: “We want to encourage production. While technology could transform the processes of doing business, what you cannot replace is manufacturing.
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‎You can replace the process, you can replace the mode, but you must have manufacturing.If there is anything the administration can do to help you, don’t hesitate to ask.”
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‎He explained that the administration was exploring alternative sources of power, and urged manufacturers in the state to take advantage of the facility and other interventions.