The Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu-led administration in Abia State has assured of its readiness to partner with French Government in agriculture, commerce, education and transfer of technology for the socio-economic development of the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Chris Ezem, who made this known when he received, on behalf of the State Government, a team of investors from the French Embassy led by the Director- General, Abia State Education for Employment, Dr Endi Ezengwa.

Barr. Ezem reiterated that Abia State government would always provide enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the state.

He made it clear that agriculture, education, commerce and technology were among the major pillars of the present administration, pointing out that government was currently rebuilding Aba through the provision of critical infrastructure.

He disclosed that the Enyimba Economic City when realised, was expected to employ over 7,000 people, adding that the shoe and Garment sectors have improved to the extent that the state now exports shoes to other countries.

In their speeches, the Regional Agricultural Counsellor from French Embassy, Dr. Sonia Darraq and the Country Director, Mounir Alhoz., promised that their four-day visit would benefit Abia State and the country. The team later visited RAAMP, National War Museum, Ojukwu Bunker, Ministry of Agriculture and Umuosu Poultry Cluster.

Permanent Secretaries, former Commissioners and Special Adviser to the Governor on Foreign Investment, Lady Chinedu Brown, among others, were present during the visit.

In another development, the Director General, Abia State Education for Employment, Dr. Endi Ezengwa, has commended Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for attracting direct foreign investments into the state.

Ezengwa made the statement while conducting the team of French investors round some sectors of the state’s economy.

He said that these sectors were part of the cardinal policy trust of the state government and expressed hope that the visit by the French team of investors who came on a fact-finding tour would yield positive results.

Ezengwa said that Abia was blessed with various natural resources which, when harnessed properly, would enhance development and boost the State’s Internally-Generated Revenue.

He praised Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for providing a conducive atmosphere for businesses to thrive in the State and described the special Adviser to the Governor on Foreign Investment Lady Chinedu Brown, as a round peg in a round hole.

In his remarks, the President of Aba Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Sir Lawrence Obeta, disclosed that Abia was among the three states in Nigeria that have attracted several foreign investors and appreciated Governor Ikpeazu for his resourcefulness in administering the state.

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