Otti Urges Abians to Invest at Home, Seeks Local Partners to Revive Star Paper Mill

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, has appealed to Abians at home and abroad to return their investments to the state, saying his administration has laid a solid foundation for businesses to thrive.

The governor made the appeal on Wednesday while receiving leaders of the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union (ACIU) Worldwide, led by its General President, Chief Yuccee Ottah Uwah, at the Government House.

Governor Otti said restoring order, security, and infrastructure—especially in Aba—was a deliberate step to create a conducive environment for investment. He noted that while foreign investment is welcome, local investors remain critical to sustainable development.

He observed that many Abians currently run thriving manufacturing and commercial ventures outside the country and urged them to consider Abia as their preferred destination whenever they plan to expand.

The governor also challenged the Abiriba community to take the lead in reviving the Star Paper Mill, which was recently taken over by the Abia State Government after years of inactivity. The facility, formerly owned by the late Chief Nnanna Kalu, was acquired from AMCON and now belongs fully to the state.

Governor Otti said the government has no intention of running the company directly but is ready to engage credible private investors who have the capacity to restore operations and generate employment. He added that although foreign proposals had been received, priority would be given to local investors to ensure inclusive economic growth.

He directed relevant government officials to intensify engagement with Abians in the diaspora and across major cities, stressing that investors do not need to abandon their existing businesses elsewhere but should consider Abia for future expansion.

Responding to concerns raised by the Abiriba delegation, Governor Otti assured them that efforts were underway to restore electricity supply across Abia North and to address erosion challenges affecting their communities. He also confirmed that renovation works at Akahaba General Hospital would soon begin.

In his remarks, Chief Uwah commended the governor for infrastructural development across the state, including road projects, healthcare upgrades, and the recovery of key public assets. He pledged the continued support of the Abiriba community and said efforts were underway to mobilize investors within and outside Nigeria.

Other speakers at the meeting praised the governor’s reforms, citing improvements in governance, service delivery, and the business climate. Several top government officials were present during the visit.