Abia Government to Launch Waste-to-Wealth Initiative, Set to Acquire Afro-Beverages — Governor Alex Otti

The Abia State Government has concluded plans to launch a Waste-to-Wealth initiative that will convert debris into valuable resources to support economic growth and environmental sustainability in the state.

Governor Alex Otti announced the development on Thursday during the October edition of “Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians”, held at the Government House, Umuahia.

According to the Governor, the initiative marks the next phase of Abia’s waste management reform, following the earlier state of emergency declared on waste collection and disposal shortly after he assumed office.

“We are now moving to the next stage of waste management, which is proper waste treatment, recycling, and turning the waste into wealth,” Otti stated. “We have done extensive studies and discovered that it is expensive, but we are determined to proceed. Just as it has been done in Austria and other parts of Europe, we will convert rubbish into gas, methane, and even power.”

Governor Otti disclosed that the state has already secured partnerships with several institutions and industries that have experience in similar projects across Nigeria. “Some partnership agreements have been signed, and in the near future, we will flag off the Waste-to-Wealth initiative in Abia,” he added.

The Governor also revealed progress on industrial revival, announcing that his administration has finalized plans to acquire Afro-Beverages Limited located along the Aba–Port Harcourt Expressway. The acquisition follows the state’s earlier move to take over Star Paper Mill, also owned by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

“Recently, our offer for Afro-Beverages was accepted. The company is still operational, and we will complete payment to AMCON in seven installments starting next month,” Otti said.

Explaining the government’s motive for acquiring such assets, the Governor stressed that the goal was not for the state to own or directly manage the companies, but to act as a catalyst for private sector-led growth.

“The government is an enabler, not a business owner. Our aim is to revive these companies, bring in experts to manage them, and create jobs for our young people,” he emphasized.

Governor Otti also outlined ongoing efforts in the education and health sectors. He announced that the state will recruit 4,000 additional teachers before the end of the year to close the existing shortfall, bringing the total number of new teachers employed to over 9,000.

He disclosed that some dilapidated school buildings will be demolished and rebuilt to create safer learning environments. On healthcare, the Governor revealed that non-Nigerians were among applicants for the state’s ongoing recruitment of health workers, describing the process as transparent and merit-based.

Governor Otti urged residents to remain vigilant and report any security concerns to the appropriate authorities. He further directed that the November edition of the monthly media chat be held at the newly remodeled Michael Okpara Auditorium, underscoring his administration’s commitment to transparency and open governance.

With the planned launch of the Waste-to-Wealth initiative and the acquisition of Afro-Beverages, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s focus on economic recovery, job creation, and sustainable development in Abia State.