ONICCIMA commends Obiano on Organized Private Sector Development

www.odogwublog.com reports that the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture has commended His Excellency, Gov. Willie Obiano, for his efforts toward the development of an organized private sector in the State. The President, Pharm. Uchenna Apakama, gave the commendation during the public session of the association’s 29th Annual General Meeting which held in Onitsha on Thursday.

The encomium was in view of the true hand of fellowship extended to the Chamber’s movement by the Obiano administration, including adoption as a partner in the industrial development of the State. Since His Excellency’s assumption of office, he has been regularly consulting and collaborating with the leadership of the Association of Anambra Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (AACCIMA) on major socio-development affecting the State.

‘‘We wish to express our gratitude to Gov. Willie Obiano for this fatherly consideration and hope that the warm relationship will continue to grow stronger,’’ Apakama said.

The President further acknowledged the unprecedented assistance received from all organs of the State towards the successful planning and execution of the first ever Anambra State Trade Fair in November 2016 under the aegis of Association of Anambra Chambers of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, whilst thanking the Governor for approving the use of Ekwueme Square Awka for the 2017 Fair. The forthcoming Fair will be held from 12th – 25th October 2017.

In his remark, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Budget and Development Partners, Mr. Mark Okoye, represented by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Economic Planning, Budget and Development Partners, Mr. Obiora Obiabunmo, restated the Obiano administration's commitment to trade, commerce, industrialization and agricultural development as enshrined in the economic blueprint, affirming that these development pillars are in sync with the focus of the Chamber of Commerce.

Recall that Governor Willie Obiano in his spirited concern to lessen the harsh effect of the current economic recession introduced a number of palliative measures, including suspension of certain categories of levies on business operators, tax rebate and disbandment of illegal groups that collect unlawful fees from private business enterprises, among others.

Speaking further, the Commissioner reiterated State Government's commitment to providing an enabling environment and conducive investment climate for private sector development. Anambra plans to become the first choice investment destination and most preferred location to site new industries.  He subsequently said that Chambers of Commerce in the State would be consulted for input, as part of the process of preparing the forthcoming 2018-2020 mid-term plan.

Highlight of the meeting was the citation and conferment of Award of Excellence on deserving Nigerians.

By Nonso Ndumanya