By Uzor Odigbo
The Federal Government of Nigeria has included Ebonyi State in the list of Nigeria’s Export Processing Zones (NEPZA) designate.
As a result, the Ebonyi State government has already allocated a parcel of land to the NEPZA for the take-off of the project.
The Governor, David Umahi, while handing over the allocation letter to the Managing Director, NEPZA, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, in the state capital, Abakaliki on Tuesday, noted he was optimistic the project would stimulate growth and generate employment opportunities.
Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kelechi Igwe, the governor stated that the state was in a haste to develop, hence exploring every given opportunities.
He urged the Federal Government to expedite actions on the project for the benefit of the people of the state.
According to him, “We hope that the project when completed will stimulate the economy of the State and generate employments for our youths”.
Meanwhile, Adesugba in his remarks, said that NEPZA was saddled with the responsibility to establish, licence, regulate and operate highly efficient free zones.
He added that the agency also provides a highly competitive incentive scheme, excellent support facilities and service to make such projects achievable.
Adesugba also declared that NEPZA was committed towards creating an enabling environment for export, manufacturing and other commercial activities to thrive.
He noted that NEPZA was attracted to Ebonyi by the member representing Abakalik/Izzi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Sylvester Ogbaga and lauded the passion so far shown by the Ebonyi State Government towards supporting the project.