I am totally impressed with the $1.5b shoe factory deal which was secured by Gov Okezie Ikpeazu during his last visit to China, but mine being impressed is if the whole deal is true and not another scam.
Why it’s important I emphasis the smokescreen issue is because we have seen some smokescreen published projects which today is no where on ground. For example, we had so much publicity attached to the resuscitation of Golden Genuine (GG) brewery, but today it’s no where and the government is not willing to even tell Abians what happened. Secondly, we had so much publicity attached to the resuscitation of Glass Industry in Aba, but today the glass Industry is closed again for over 7 months and the government has not also seen it necessary to explain what is happening to Abians, thirdly, the government carried out a lot of publicity concerning the renovation and upgrading of Enyimba Hotel, but today the structure has remained the same and the government has not seen it necessary to explain to Abians why..
So, I find it hard to believe anything until I see it on ground as far as this government is concerned. But that is not to say I will not appraise projects that are on paper or announced by the Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu led government.
The truth remains that Aba is the hub of creativity in Nigeria especially when it comes to clothes and accessories and anything that will be done to improve it should be welcomed.
Secondly, investing $1.5b into Abia state is massive and should be encouraged because, it will definitely grow our IGR and also take a lot people off the street which will in a long run reduce crime.
Another thing of importance is that massive investment, encourages other massive investments. I bet you, if the Chinese company successfully invest hitch free, other Chinese firms will drive in and this will obviously grow the state economy rapidly.
Another thing of importance is that this investment by this Chinese shoe company will improve our locally made shoes, thereby increase our international influence and income.
The only challenge I see is that the government must protect the local shoe makers, the government must cut deals that will enable local shoe makers get access to better modern equipments and this Chinese company must be ready to transfer skills, if not, the Chinese firm Will take life off from our local shoe makers, they will take over the market and thereby making our locals close shop.
The government must watch the above last paragraph and handle that with care, before we lose our growing and booming shoes making market in Aba to the Chinese.
Ndewo Ndi Abia..
AFN
