Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has appointed renowned Enugu-born technocrat and former Minister of Power, Professor Barth Nnaji, as Chairman of a newly inaugurated 15-member Economic Team that will drive the state’s industrialisation agenda.
A statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, explained that the team comprises economists, industrialists, and technocrats carefully selected to provide strategic guidance. Associate Professor Ben Uruchi Odoh will serve as Secretary.
Other 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, Chief Dominic Nwibo, Chief Elechi Innocent Ojiugwo, Anayo Omoke, Dr. Mark Abani, High Chief Ifeanyi Clement Okorie, Dr. Edward Nkwegu, and Mr. Mike Chukwu.
Governor Nwifuru said the team was set up to tackle key challenges such as erratic power supply, underutilised solid minerals, and the urgent need to fast-track industrialisation in Ebonyi.
“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 tasked the committee with advising on the revival of the Nigerian Cement Company (NIGERCEM), the establishment of another cement plant, and setting up a salt production factory to justify Ebonyi’s title as “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,” Nwifuru added.
Responding on behalf of the members, Prof. Nnaji praised Governor Nwifuru’s foresight and determination. He described the Ebonyi governor as “a visionary leader who reflects vision, boldness, and courage to drive the development process for the State.”
