Business a.m
The Abia State Government has announced that the modular refinery at the Abia Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP) is scheduled to become operational by 2025.
Okey Kanu, Abia State’s Commissioner for Information and Culture, made the disclosure during a press conference following the state executive council meeting held in Umuahia. He said that the modular refinery would be the first major project at the park and that it was expected to be fully operational by the stated year.
Kanu further elaborated that the refinery is expected to create about 2,000 direct jobs and numerous indirect jobs, providing employment opportunities for Abia’s young people. He also stressed the importance of the modular refinery in meeting the energy needs of the state and supporting the growth of the local economy.
In his words, “The project will help to provide refined products for the people of Abia as well as increase our revenue base as a state.
So, it is a project that is very important to this government and every effort is being put in place to ensure that the date is met.”
The state government is also ready to reap from the petroleum and mineral endowments in the state.”
Kanu mentioned that there has been significant interest from investors looking to establish businesses in the Southeast region, particularly in the petroleum sector. He expressed optimism that the modular refinery and other planned investments would create significant job opportunities and boost economic growth in the region. He also noted that the investments would be a key part of the state government’s efforts to provide employment opportunities for the youth in Abia state.
On his part, Joel Ogbonna, the commissioner for petroleum and mineral resources, further emphasised that the creation of the AIIP is a testament to the state government’s commitment to transforming Abia state. He explained that a range of proactive measures have been taken to explore the entire petroleum value chain, including the development of the modular refinery and other projects in the sector.
Ogbonna highlighted the significant opportunity for job creation and overall state transformation presented by the establishment of a modular refinery in the region. He also mentioned that Abia state is rich in mineral resources, with over 17 different types of minerals found within its borders. He concluded that the state government is taking steps to harness these mineral resources to drive economic growth and create new employment opportunities.
