The South East Governors’ Forum (SEGF) and the business committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide are set to unveil investment and industrialization plans for the region.
Chairman of the SEGF and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, disclosed this during a consultative meeting with members of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Council of Igbo Business Leaders in Owerri, Imo State.
Governor Uzodinma expressed his state’s readiness for business, particularly in gas exploration, and welcomed investors with the requisite expertise and technology. He praised Ohanaeze Ndigbo for establishing the August Council.
He emphasized the council’s objectives, including identifying and nurturing young Igbo entrepreneurs, creating a united voice for the Igbo business community, and collaborating with various agencies to create an enabling environment for investments in Igbo land. These objectives were endorsed by the SEGF.
“I am impressed by the caliber of the delegation, which includes Chief Alex Chika Okafor of Chicason Group, Mr. Frank Nneji of ABC Transport Group, Mr. Johnson Chukwu of Cowrie Assets, Darl Uzu of Enyimba Economic City, and Lady Josephine Nwaeze, among other distinguished Igbo business leaders and professionals,” Uzodinma stated.
The delegation leader, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, noted that the council’s mandate involves working with regional governments to enhance economic development and integration. He highlighted the neglect and hardship in the region due to the reluctance of Igbo businessmen to invest locally while boosting other regions’ economies.
Ohuabunwa praised the SEGF’s efforts to stabilize the South East’s economy and proposed common investment policies and practices for the region, emphasizing the homogeneity of the Igbo people.
“The first assignment of the committee was to review the terms of reference. It became clear that Ohanaeze Ndigbo wants us to support regional governments in enhancing economic development and improving our people’s conditions,” Ohuabunwa said.
