ABIA HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY APPROVES GOVERNOR OTTI’S REQUEST TO ACQUIRE STAR PAPER MILL AND AFRO BEVERAGE LIMITED

…as Lawmakers Hail Move as Strategic Investment in Abia’s Industrial Revival

The Abia State House of Assembly, during its plenary session yesterday, unanimously approved a landmark request from the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, seeking authorization for the State Government to acquire two moribund industrial giants, Star Paper Mill Ltd, located in Aba and Owerrinta, and Afro Beverage Ltd, also located in Aba.

The formal communication from the Governor was conveyed to the House through the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN, and was read before the Honourable Members by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa.

According to the letter, Governor Otti emphasized the strategic economic importance of the acquisition, describing it as a major step toward industrial rejuvenation, job creation, and economic diversification in Abia State. The request sought the Assembly’s resolution, the essential legal and legislative backing needed for the Government to finalize the transaction and commence the revitalization of the two companies.

Following the reading of the letter, Speaker Emeruwa opened the floor for debate. The plenary witnessed robust and constructive deliberations as lawmakers from across party lines lauded the Governor’s foresight and vision. Their collective contributions underscored the shared belief that reviving these once-thriving industries would stimulate massive economic growth across Abia State.

At the end of deliberations, the House unanimously passed a resolution authorizing the State Government to proceed with the acquisition process.

Addressing the Assembly after the resolution, Speaker Emeruwa described the decision as a bold and deliberate investment in the people of Abia, rather than a mere purchase of assets.

“Let me be clear to every citizen of Abia about what this decision means for all of us. This is not merely the purchase of properties. It is a deliberate and strategic investment in the people of Abia. The revival of these industries is intended to serve as a catalyst for widespread economic benefits,” he said.

The Speaker went on to outline the far-reaching implications of the move, highlighting its potential to create jobs, stimulate local markets, empower small businesses, and boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

“It means jobs. It means our sons and daughters will find direct employment within these mills and factories. It means countless more opportunities will be created for suppliers, transporters, and small business owners who will support these operations. It means more money in the pockets of our people,” Emeruwa noted.

He further stressed that the reactivation of the dormant factories in Aba and Owerrinta would restore pride and hope to Abia’s industrial communities, reinforcing the state’s historical reputation as the “Japan of Africa.”

On the fiscal front, the Speaker explained that successful operations of the two companies would generate significant revenue for the state, providing government with more resources to improve infrastructure and social services without increasing the tax burden on citizens.

“For our economic future, this means diversification and security. We are building an economy that does not rely on a single source. We are creating strategic state assets that will serve and protect the interests of Abia for generations to come,” the Speaker added.

Rt. Hon. Emeruwa assured Abians that the House would not merely authorize the acquisition and disengage, but would maintain strict legislative oversight to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper implementation of the project.

“The House will exercise its constitutional duty of oversight with the utmost diligence. We will monitor the progress of this acquisition and its implementation to ensure transparency, efficiency, and that the promised benefits are delivered to the people,” he affirmed.

Concluding his remarks, the Speaker described the legislative approval as a pivotal step toward Abia’s economic liberation, pledging continued partnership between the legislative and executive arms in the collective effort to build a prosperous, modern, and industrialized Abia State.

“This is a step towards the economic liberation we all desire. The House is proud to have played its part, and we remain committed in our collective mission to build a prosperous, modern, and industrious Abia State for all,” he said.

With this resolution, the Abia State Government now has the legislative backing to proceed with the acquisition and revitalization of Star Paper Mill Ltd and Afro Beverage Ltd, a move widely seen as a defining moment in Governor Alex Otti ’s economic transformation agenda.