By Brenda Chidinma
Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has flagged off the construction of an industrial city in Izziangbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, describing it as a transformative step towards eradicating poverty and creating sustainable economic opportunities in the state.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Nwifuru said the industrial city aligns with his administration’s “People’s Charter of Needs” agenda and represents a tangible response to the challenges of unemployment, lack of industrial infrastructure, and youth disempowerment.
“Sincerely, today is a day of great significance not only for Ebonyi but for the entire South East and indeed the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This project is a testament to our vision and commitment to uplifting our people,” he stated.
The governor stressed that the industrial city is strategically located to attract both local and international investors. It will be powered by a dedicated CNG power station and will feature consistent electricity, a variety of industrial clusters, and youth training centres.
“We are deliberately sitting this project in Izziangbo because of its position. We want to empower our youths and women, promote technology integration, and create a conducive environment for industrial growth,” Nwifuru said.
According to him, the city will not only generate employment but also serve as a catalyst for economic revival across Ebonyi. He lamented the high number of Ebonyians hawking in cities like Lagos and Onitsha, attributing it to lack of opportunities back home. “We are building hostels so that when we bring our people to learn skills, they will have where to stay. We can’t continue to be known for street hawking. It is time to break that chain,” he added.
He revealed that the state currently has only 14 megawatts of electricity, of which it consumes 8MW — a reality that has stifled industrial development. “Ebonyi is the only state in southern Nigeria without a federal KV line. But we won’t keep begging. We’re taking action,” he declared.
Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila, described the project as the first of its kind in the state and pledged that the project committee would deliver on the governor’s vision. “If we enumerate what Ebonyi will gain from this project, we won’t finish it. We are committed to its success,” she said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Ohaukwu LGA, Prince Ikechukwu Odono, thanked the governor for choosing the LGA for such a historic project. “We are not taking this for granted. Today, we begin a journey that will change the lives of our youths,” he noted.
Various stakeholders, including Hon. Eze Nwachukwu, who represents Ohaukwu/Ebonyi Federal Constituency, praised the initiative as a step towards true emancipation. Elder statesman Sen. Chris Nwankwo, former Deputy Governor Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, and Engr. Ben Okah all commended the governor for turning vision into reality.
Governor Nwifuru also hinted at plans to establish a new cement factory in Ebonyi, citing litigation challenges surrounding the existing Nkalagu cement plant. “We won’t allow legal bottlenecks to delay our industrialisation. If need be, we’ll start afresh,” he stated.
He further warned contractors and appointees not meeting expectations, adding that a roll call of non-performers was imminent.