Otti to revitalise Aba Textile Mills, International Equitable Industries, Afro Beverages, Star Paper Mills

The Abia State Government has announced plans to revive four moribund companies in Aba as part of its drive to boost industrial growth, create jobs, and strengthen the state’s economy.

Briefing journalists at Government House, Umuahia, after Monday’s Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, said the affected companies are Aba Textile Mills, International Equitable Industries, Afro Beverages, and Star Paper Mills.

Mr. Kanu revealed that the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) had approved Abia’s plan to take over Star Paper Mills, with the revitalisation process expected to begin soon. He explained that the government’s strategy is to recover and revive these industries before selling them to private sector investors, while retaining enough shares to protect the interests of Abians.

“The revitalisation efforts will provide jobs for Abia people and generate significant revenue for the state,” he said.

The commissioner also disclosed that the Abia Health Insurance Scheme has exceeded its 2025 target with 103,076 enrollees, reflecting strong public confidence in the scheme. He noted that registration of residents in the informal sector will commence soon.

To further strengthen healthcare delivery, the government has created two new agencies:

• The Abia Drug and Medical Commodities Management Agency
• The Department of Nutrition under the Ministry of Health

Mr. Kanu added that under Project Ekwueme, the state has completed 121 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs). Of these, 17 are already functional, 33 are being equipped, and another 50 will come on stream in the third phase. With approximately 948 PHCs in the state, he explained that the rehabilitation is being done in phases, with the next round set for October.

The commissioner emphasized that better facilities and improved personnel have encouraged more residents to access healthcare services across the state.

On environmental health, Kanu said the Ministry of Environment began a house-to-house sanitary inspection exercise across the 17 LGAs on August 1, 2025, to promote best hygiene practices. He stressed that defaulters will face prosecution under Abia’s Environmental Laws.

He further announced that the State Executive Council has approved the Abia Health, Safety, and Environment Policy, which is designed to promote the welfare of civil servants. The policy will soon be implemented following the approval of Governor Alex Otti.

The commissioner maintained that these measures reflect the administration’s focus on industrial recovery, healthcare reform, and environmental discipline, all aimed at building a healthier and economically stronger Abia.