FIC Report (Abia State) – The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has expressed readiness to partner with the Federal Government through the Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria (RRIN) in a strategic move to revitalize rubber production and boost the State’s economy.
Speaking on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from RRIN led by the Chairman of its Governing Board, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, Governor Otti emphasized that the collaboration aligns with the State’s economic vision. He tasked the Commissioners for Agriculture and for Industry & SME, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze and Mazi Mike Akpara respectively, to immediately engage the RRIN team to outline the modalities for implementation.
“This partnership with the Federal Government through the Rubber Research Institute will raise productivity, improve our GDP, and most importantly create jobs through value-chain activities such as processing, packaging, and export,” the Governor stated.
He further hinted at the possibility of establishing a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to drive the initiative, stressing that Nigeria must return to its agricultural roots to ensure long-term economic sustainability.
“There’s no reason why we should continue to downplay agriculture—rubber and other products built this economy before oil. We must look ahead because oil may soon become irrelevant in a world moving towards zero emissions,” Dr. Otti warned.
Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba said RRIN’s visit was in furtherance of the Federal Government’s presidential initiative to revive rubber production and reposition Nigeria among Africa’s leading producers. He noted that rubber offers enormous industrial and medical applications and that Abia is strategically positioned to lead in this resurgence.
Also speaking, RRIN Executive Director, Mrs. Lilian Nkechi Dongo, emphasized that the Institute is the only body mandated with the research and development of rubber and related crops in Nigeria. She maintained that rubber holds the potential to significantly ease Nigeria’s economic woes.
“We are here to build a strong partnership with Abia State, and we also seek your support to host our international conference later this year,” she added.
The meeting was attended by key government officials including the State Commissioners for Agriculture and Industry/SME, highlighting Abia’s strong commitment to the Federal Government-backed initiative.
This partnership marks a significant step toward repositioning Abia as a leader in sustainable agro-industrial development.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
FIC, UMUAHIA, ABIA STATE.
11-07-2025.
