…Promises investment friendly environment, security, digitalized transactions

By Jimitota Onoyume

Chairman of Obio-Akpor local government area ,Rivers state ,Dr Gift Worlu has unveiled  his Obalga ARISE programme focused on achieving sustainable development, security and massive economic gains for the area .

Speaking at a one day economic and investment summit themed ” Obalga ARISE , building a sustainable economy for  Obio Akpor local government area ”  organized by the local government council Dr Worlu said his administration has  introduced some radical reforms to secure investors confidence.

” ARISE is my covenant with you. It is the social.contract.between me as your chairman of council and the great and dynamic people of Obio Akpor local government area. I came to change and give meaning to lives and livelihood.

” Very soon you will pay your levies using your phones in minutes . You will apply for permits online and track them like you track a bolt ride . No more missing files. When you walk into our offices ,I want you to feel proud , not frustrated ” ,he said.

” We are tearing down all irrelevant rules that make no sense . I want investors to say if you are doing business in Rivers state start in Obio Akpor , things just work there. Our markets and motor parks will be better managed “, he added.

He said his administration has started  fixing bad roads,  lighting up the streets in the area, assuring that Obio Akpor will be among the top choices of destination for investors. ” We are bringing fast internet to every ward”, he stressed.

Chief Onueze Chukwujinka Joe Okocha , SAN  , (19th president of the Nigerian Bar Association and ambassadorial nominee),  Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Abraham Georgewill, traditional rulers and  Mr Trinath Sahu , Regional sales Manager Power Generation were among those that gave goodwill messages eulogizing the  Chairman of the council for  the initiative .

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt who spoke through the Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Development,  Professor Angela Frank-Briggs said the university   would support the development drive  . ” We are prepared for this town and gown relationship “, he said.

“Well done  Mr chairman for this initiative. This will help attract investment to the local government. Let’s leverage on this to attract investment”, Okocha said.

Dr Igo Weli, General Manager Relations and Sustainable Development, Renaissance Africa Energy company,  in his keynote address on ” Harnessing, expanding and sustaining the economic potential of Obio Akpor local government area “,  recalled  scenarios  in the past when  alleged ugly attitudes made some investors relocate their businesses to other parts of the country,  expressing hope  that the resolve of the new council Chairman contained  in his Arise initiative will secure investors confidence. He assured of his support and commitment to  the new  development goals for the area.