NEWS
Abia State Govt Intensifies Industrial Revival Efforts as Commissioner, Mike Akpara Inspects Renovation of Enyimba Garment Factory and ENASCO Facilities in Aba
The Commissioner for the Ministry of Industry and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Mazi Michael Enyinnaya Akpara, has conducted an inspection tour of the ongoing renovation work at the Enyimba Garment Factory and ENASCO facilities in Aba, Abia State, as part of the state government’s determined push to revive critical industrial establishments and reposition the state as a major hub for manufacturing and enterprise.
The inspection forms part of the broader industrial revitalization strategy being pursued by the administration of Alex Chioma Otti, which seeks to restore dormant state-owned industries, stimulate economic activities, and strengthen the productive capacity of local businesses across the state.
During the visit, the commissioner led a high-level delegation of senior officials from the Ministry of Industry and SMEs to assess the level of progress achieved on the renovation project currently being executed by the ministry. The initiative is aimed at rehabilitating vital industrial infrastructure that once played significant roles in the economic life of the state.
The inspection tour focused on evaluating the structural upgrades, facility improvements, and other rehabilitation works being carried out within the industrial complexes. The renovation is expected to modernize the facilities, enhance operational efficiency, and create a conducive environment for large-scale garment production and agro-industrial activities.
Addressing members of the delegation during the visit, Commissioner Akpara emphasized that the purpose of the inspection was to closely monitor the progress of work and ensure that the project is being implemented in accordance with approved specifications and within the projected timeline. He noted that regular supervision of government projects remains essential in guaranteeing transparency, accountability, and high-quality execution.
According to the commissioner, the current administration remains firmly committed to restoring key industrial facilities across the state in order to stimulate production, encourage local manufacturing, and create sustainable employment opportunities for thousands of Abia residents.
He further explained that the revival of the Enyimba Garment Factory and ENASCO is expected to significantly boost the state’s manufacturing capacity, reduce dependence on imported goods, and strengthen Abia’s reputation as a centre of enterprise and innovation.
Akpara expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded at the project sites and commended both the management team and contractors handling the renovation for their dedication and commitment to delivering the project successfully.
During the inspection exercise, the Managing Director overseeing the facilities, Nena Kalu Ogba, led the commissioner and his team on an extensive tour of the renovation sites. She provided detailed explanations on the scope of work already completed, including structural rehabilitation, facility upgrades, and ongoing phases of construction currently underway.
Ogba assured the delegation that the management team remains fully committed to ensuring that the renovation project is completed successfully in line with the state government’s vision of repositioning the industrial sector and attracting new investments into Abia.
She also expressed appreciation to the commissioner and members of the delegation for the inspection visit, noting that their continued oversight and support would play a vital role in ensuring that the project is completed within schedule and to the highest standards.
The inspection exercise further highlights the determination of the Abia State Government to revive dormant industries, strengthen local manufacturing capacity, and strategically position the state as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial and commercial destinations.
Officials who accompanied the commissioner during the inspection included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and SMEs, Okey Ihemanma; Director of Finance, Okoh C. I; Director of Administration, Catherine Nwogu; Director of PRS, Chidiebere Offor; Head of Industry, Chima Chibueze; Head of Industrial Establishment Sector, Anthony Ochiemu; and Legal Adviser, Forgiveness Madukairo, all of whom participated in assessing the progress and impact of the ongoing industrial rehabilitation effort.