Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Government has taken a bold step towards industrial transformation with a landmark investment deal sealed during the recent investment summit in New York City, United States.
The delegation, led by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, participated actively in the summit organized by African Import Export Solutions, one of the leading trade promotion organizations connecting African economies with global investors.
According to the Commissioner for Special Duties and Focal Person, State Diaspora Office, Valentine Okike-Uzo, who was part of the Governor’s entourage, the event, which held on September 22, 2025, marked a turning point for Ebonyi’s industrial future.
“For those asking for evidence of the investment summit attended by our dear Governor, the pictures taken both within and outside the venue clearly show the Ebonyi team engaging meaningfully with global investors,” Okike-Uzo said.
He revealed that Governor Nwifuru had a close interaction with the Managing Director and CEO of African Import Export Solutions, Mr. Uduka Udeh — a Nigerian from Delta State based in the U.S.
Acording to Mr Okike-Uzor, the meeting, focused on exploring viable partnerships aimed at converting Ebonyi’s vast agricultural potential into global export opportunities.
“To ensure the authenticity and sustainability of the proposed investments, the Governor invited Udeh and his team for a follow-up engagement, during which discussions were deepened and a partnership agreement was sealed.”
“In about two weeks, the team from the U.S. will arrive Abakaliki for further discussions on establishing a multi-billion dollar food processing factory in the state,” Okike-Uzo disclosed.
The Commissioner noted that when completed, the factory is expected to process yam, cassava, maize, sweet potatoes, rice, and palm oil — all abundant in Ebonyi State — into export-ready products for markets in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Asia.
He noted that beyond strengthening Ebonyi’s export base, the project is projected to create at least 1,000 direct jobs and generate between $50 million and $100 million in annual export revenue.
“It’s the desire of the Governor to industrialize the state, hence these all-important meetings in faraway New York City,” Okike-Uzo added.
“By the grace of God, this project will become a reality and change the economic fortunes of our people,” Okike-Uzor said.
He assured the public that updates on the progress of the partnership would be communicated as the implementation phase begins, expressing confidence that Governor Nwifuru’s efforts have already secured a brighter and more prosperous future for Ebonyi State.
