To set up CNG conversion factory in Abia
Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Founder and Chairman of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company, makers of Innoson Motors brand, Chief Innocent Chukwuma, has described Gov. Alex Otti of Abia State as his company’s number one customer.
Chief Chukwuma, who stated this when he paid a business visit to Governor Otti at his Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government country-home, thanked the Governor for being a great promoter of the Innoson brand.
“He’s the number one marketer of Innoson,” Chief Chukwuma said of Dr. Otti.
“Most of the vehicles bought by the Government in this state (Abia) are Innoson vehicles and they are happy with the vehicles.”
The visit is coming amidst criticisms against Abia Government’s decision to give out 20 Toyota Hilux patrol vans to security agencies instead of Innoson Motors.
Chief Chukwuma applauded Governor Otti for his continued support and patronage, adding that his company is in talk with officials of the Abia State Government to set up a maintenance centre for the servicing and repairs of the vehicles in Abia.
The foremost Nigerian indigenous auto maker also said that he plans to make Abia the hub for conversion of petrol and diesel engine vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) user engine.
Chief Chukwuma used the opportunity to clear the air over the recent 20 Toyota Hilux patrol vans Abia State Government donated to security agencies.
Social media influencer, Aisha Yesuf, had criticised Otti for not patronising Innoson Motors in the deal, urging him not to repeat similar mistake in future.
But the Innoson Motors CEO disclosed that Governor Otti had actually placed order for 20 security pick-up vans from his company, which the government needed urgently but the company was not able to supply them at that time because it had exhausted its stock, hence the Government needed to procure the vehicles elsewhere.
Governor Otti, while receiving Chief Chukwuma and his team, pledged to continue to support Innoson Motors.
He said that his government had already purchased no fewer than 40 Innoson brand of vehicles, adding that arrangement was ongoing to procure more vehicles, including those of the 24 members of the Abia State House of Assembly.
The Governor reminded the Innoson Chairman that his own (Governor’s) official vehicle which he ordered from Innoson was still being awaited, to which the car maker quickly promised to deliver by next week.
Gov Otti stated that every effort he is making to secure the State and put road infrastructure is aimed at developing the State and creating wealth for the people of the State.
He assured Chief Chukwuma of continuous partnership with the Government of Abia State.
Ikengaonline reports that so far, the official vehicles of Commissioners and Special Aides to the Governor are Innoson Motors brand.
Innoson Motors has its car plant in Enugu State where the company also manufactures so many other products including plastic products and building materials.
