Federal Government explores support for Aba textile and farm businesses

The Federal Government is exploring support for businesses in Abia State, particularly textile and garment manufacturers in Aba, as well as initiatives in agriculture, its Special Adviser on Industry, Trade and Investment, John Uwajimogu, said on Wednesday. Uwajimogu spoke during a visit to Governor Alex Otti. He said the delegation was seeking deeper engagement with the state government and looking for areas in which federal projects and investment opportunities could be developed in partnership with Abia.

He said the government had recognised Aba’s industrial capacity, especially in textiles and garments. According to him, officials were considering measures to help businesses overcome infrastructure and financing difficulties. “We are also coming to discuss what we can bring to the table and help resolve and address those binding constraints,” Uwajimogu said.

He added that the Federal Government was interested in bringing projects and programmes to Abia as part of efforts to promote economic development. Cornelius Adebayo, executive secretary and chief executive officer of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority, said NALDA was seeking the state’s support for its Renewed Hope Mega Farm Estate programme. The scheme is intended to bring farmers together, provide infrastructure, improve security, support access to inputs and markets, and create sustainable incomes.

Adebayo appealed to Otti to provide suitable land and support for a major agricultural project, potentially including a processing facility. Otti said his administration was ready to work with NALDA and other stakeholders. The governor said Abia had fertile land suitable for cassava, yam, cocoyam, oil palm and cashew despite its limited landmass.

He said increasing domestic production could reduce pressure on the foreign exchange market caused by food imports.