Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has named renowned technocrat and former Minister of Power, Professor Bart Nnaji, as the Chairman of a newly constituted 15-member Economic Team aimed at advancing the state’s industrialisation agenda.
The appointment was confirmed in a statement released by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, who noted that the team is composed of carefully selected economists, industrialists and technocrats tasked with providing strategic direction for Ebonyi’s economic future.
Associate Professor Ben Uruchi Odoh will serve as the team’s Secretary.
Other appointed members include Chief Ben Oka, Chief Mrs. Augustina Nwaoma Ekuma, Dr. Joe Abah, High Chief Ituma Chukwuemeka Enviable, Gen. Abel Obi Umahi, Chief Chibuike Orogwu and Chief Dominic Nwibo.
Others are; Chief Elechi Innocent Ojiugwo, Anayo Omoke, Dr. Mark Abani, High Chief Ifeanyi Clement Okorie, Dr. Edward Nkwegu and Mr. Mike Chukwu.
Governor Nwifuru outlined the primary objectives of the team during its inauguration, stressing that the state faces significant development hurdles, particularly in the areas of power supply, resource utilisation, and industrial growth.
“People will be commending us for bringing industrialists, technocrats to guide us in the development of our dear State. We are badly challenged; that is why we say we must sit down and bring people to guide us.”
“Our manifesto is christened the People’s Charter of Needs. We want to industrialise this State. We want to show the world that we have what it takes to do business,” the governor declared.
He specifically directed the committee to focus on reviving the Nigerian Cement Company (NIGERCEM), initiating the creation of a new cement plant and establishing a salt production factory in line with Ebonyi’s identity as the “Salt of the Nation.”
“We need to establish a Salt production factory. We have the issue of power and I am happy the Chairman was a former Minister of Power.”
“We are the only State without the required energy for industrialisation. We want you to address the issue of power through your recommendations. We have created an industrial zone. You have the capacity to put an industry in this place,” Governor Nwifuru added.
Responding, Professor Nnaji applauded the governor’s bold vision and commitment to development.
“A visionary leader who reflects vision, boldness, and courage to drive the development process for the State,” he said, describing Nwifuru’s leadership style.
The team is expected to begin work immediately.
