Senator Kalu Visits Governor Otti, Facilitates Abia State Government Collaboration With China Power
Umuahia, Abia State – In a bid to drive infrastructural and economic development in Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Governor of the state and the Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Alex Otti, OFR, at his country home in Umuehim Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area, on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
The Senator was accompanied by a delegation from China Power, a Fortune 500, Chinese government-owned company renowned for its large-scale infrastructure projects, including the $1.5 billion Shiroro Dam in Nigeria.
Senator Kalu stated that his visit was to convey New Year greetings and explore opportunities for collaboration between the Abia State Government and China Power. Speaking during the visit, he described Governor Otti as the father of the state and commended him for his open-door policy, which prioritizes the development and welfare of Abia State residents.
Governor Otti expressed his gratitude to Senator Kalu for the visit and highlighted the importance of setting aside political differences in the interest of governance. He reiterated that his administration is focused on delivering the dividends of democracy and improving the lives of Abians.
During the meeting, the team from China Power, led by Tino Dong, Vice President for Sinohydro West/Central Africa, expressed their interest in partnering with the Abia State Government in critical sectors, including:
1. Power Sector Development
2. Construction Projects
3. Survey and Extraction of Solid Minerals
4. Gas Development
China Power’s representatives included Yuan Zhang (Senior Consultant), Feng Zheng (Financial Department), and Wantei Cao (Marketing Director). They presented their proposal to collaborate with the Abia State Government on large-scale projects aimed at boosting the state’s economic and infrastructural growth.
In a related development, Governor Otti also hosted Eke Urum Eke and Eleanya Urun Eke, two entrepreneurs from Abiriba in Ohafia LGA, who proposed the establishment of a textile and garment factory in Abia State. The entrepreneurs showcased their in-depth knowledge and strategy for setting up a textile ecosystem that would transform the state into a hub for garment production.
Governor Otti lauded their initiative and assured them of his administration’s support in attracting investors to the state.
The meeting with Senator Kalu and China Power’s delegation was attended by:
• Chibueze Nwokocha, Honourable Commissioner for Trade and Commerce
• Charles Egonye, Technical Assistant to the Governor
• Other government officials
Governor Otti commended all stakeholders for their commitment to Abia State’s development and assured the public that his administration will continue to pursue partnerships that foster progress and growth.
