Governor Otti Defends Industrial Revival Plans, Clarifies Star Paper Mill Acquisition Process

Otti Not Bound by Political Grandstanding: Re-Industrialization Agenda on Track

In a continued demonstration of his commitment to youth development and economic revitalization, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has reiterated the transparency and purposefulness of his administration’s re-industrialization policy, declaring it a promise kept.

One key initiative reflecting this commitment is the Abia Leadership Academy, established to nurture leadership qualities among young Abians. Recently, the first cohort of 250 participants, aged 16 to 20, successfully completed an intensive leadership training and held their graduation ceremony.

Speaking at the event, themed “A New Pedestal,” Governor Otti expressed his pride in the participants and used the opportunity to announce a major step forward in the state’s industrial strategy: the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has approved the state’s offer to acquire the defunct Star Paper Mill.

Governor Otti, a seasoned economist, clarified that the state’s interest in acquiring the company is not for ownership but for reviving it to create jobs. “Before the end of this month, we shall pay AMCON what Star Paper Mill owes them, take over the company, restore it to functionality, and then return it to the private sector,” he stated. He emphasized that the goal is to de-risk the asset and make it attractive again for private investment.

In response to criticism and misinformation—particularly from individuals like Obinna Oriaku—Governor Otti’s media team dismissed attempts to twist the Governor’s statement, pointing out that the language used was clear and straightforward. “Even a child with a First School Leaving Certificate would understand the message,” the statement noted.

They clarified that the acquisition is not yet finalized, as payment and documentation are still pending. Therefore, claims suggesting the deal has been concluded are misleading and deliberately mischievous.

Addressing false claims made by one Ekwedike regarding the ownership of the land where the mill is located, the statement made it clear that the property had been legally sold and no longer belongs to his family.

The government remains focused on delivering real value to the people of Abia State through tangible development efforts, despite distractions from political detractors.