Abia Government Appoints Okonjo-Iweala, Oteh, Sanusi as AGEAC Members

Abia State, Alex Otti has announced the appointment of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Ms. Arunma Oteh and His Highness Khaleefa Muhammad Sanusi II as members of a nineteenth man Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council (AGEAC) of the state.

Other members include Chidi Ajegbu Mr. Bolaji Balogun, Mr. Victor Onyenkpa, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, Mr. Uche Orji, Mrs. Ndidi Nwuneli, Dr.Chika Nwobi, Dr. Olugbenga Adesida, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Mazi Clement Owunna, Dr. Uzodinma Iweala, Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, Mr. George Agu, Mazi Uzo Nwankwo, Mr Chinedu Azodoh and Dr. Benedict Oramah.

The Governor said that five members of committee are drawn from the State Executive Council, who would represent the state government. They are the Attorney-General and Honourable Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ikechukwu Uwanna; Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Kingsley Anosike; Honourable Commissioner for Finance, Mr Michael Akpara; and Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu respectively.

The Abia Global Economic Advisory Council (AGEAC) was part of Otti’s administration’s strategic plan to ensure the overall economic development of the state, and the appointment of the 19 distinguished Nigerians with global records to serve on the Council is aimed at building Abia into a self-sustaining economic hub.

Otti, however, lamented that the economy of Abia State has suffered neglect and became fragile due to untold economic sabotage, over the years. He said since its inception on May 29, 2023, his administration has commenced the socio-economic re-engineering of the state from what he described as the wreckage of the last two decades.

“Our programmes are already re-positioning and rebuilding Abia State as the economic pride of Nigeria.

“Therefore, it is essential to ensure that its economic development strategy is founded not only on a thorough understanding of the local economic environment but also on the dynamics of the emerging forces now shaping the future of the global economy.

“The newly appointed members bring a wealth of experience and expertise in various sectors, enhancing the diversity and dynamism of the Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council.

“Their collective knowledge will play a pivotal role in shaping policies that drive innovation, attract investments, form solid partnerships, and ensure the overall economic resilience of our great state.”