According to the report from the Vanguard, The five governors of the Southeast region have expressed their willingness to collaborate with Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural body, to attract viable industries to the region. This decision was announced by the Chairman of the South East Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodinma, during a meeting with members of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Council of Igbo Business Leaders in Owerri.
Governor Uzodinma specifically mentioned that Imo State is ready and eager to receive investors with expertise in gas exploration. He commended Ohanaeze Ndigbo for establishing the Council to explore business opportunities in the region. The governors expressed their support for the Council's objectives, which include identifying and nurturing young Igbo entrepreneurs for large-scale business ventures. They also aim to establish a united and credible voice to advocate for the business community in Igbo land and facilitate an enabling environment for investments.
Governor Uzodinma expressed his admiration for the delegation, which included prominent Igbo business leaders such as Chief Alex Chika Okafor, Mr. Frank Nneji, Mr. Johnson Chukwu, Darl Uzu, and Lady Josephine Nwaeze. He pledged maximum cooperation and support from himself and his fellow governors, emphasizing that Imo State is open for business and seeking innovative ideas for technology and gas exploitation.
Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, Chairman of the Council of Igbo Business Leaders, highlighted the need for collaboration between the apex Igbo body and the governments of the Southeast region to enhance economic development and integration. He emphasized that the reluctance of Igbo businessmen and industrialists to invest in the region has resulted in neglect and hardship, while other regions of the country benefit economically.
Ohuabunwa commended the South East Governors’ Forum for its efforts to stabilize the region's economy and proposed common investment policies and practices for the Southeast. He emphasized the unity of the Igbo people and the importance of working together to build leverage and compete effectively with other regions of Nigeria.
The Council aims to support the governments in the region to bring about enhanced economic development and improve the conditions of the people. Over the years, the Southeast region has experienced neglect and youth unemployment, leading to social malfeasance. Igbo businessmen and traders have also faced losses and unfair treatment in some parts of the country. The Council requested regular updates on government economic policies and initiatives to disseminate to the business community and generate support.