Abia State, Nov 1, 2024 –
In a call aimed at driving economic growth and improving the quality of life in Umuahia North, Hon. Anderson Akaliro Esq., the representative of Umuahia North in the Abia State House of Assembly, has urged his constituents in the diaspora to play an active role in the Umuahia North’s development by investing in local businesses, infrastructure, and social programs.
Akaliro’s appeal, which was delivered to newsmen in Umuahia, highlighted the significant impact that diaspora investments could have on creating jobs, advancing technology, and fostering sustainable growth within the constituency.
The lawmaker acknowledged the vital role that people abroad play in supporting their families and communities back home. Remittances from the diaspora have been a consistent source of support for the community, helping to fund education, healthcare, and housing. However, Akaliro emphasized that investing in local businesses and community-driven projects would provide longer-term solutions, fostering economic independence and prosperity across the region.
In his statement, Akaliro highlighted areas of critical need in Umuahia North, including agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. He encouraged those abroad to look beyond personal remittances and consider the wider impact they could have by investing in these sectors. According to him, Abia’s strategic location and natural resources make it ripe for development, especially in industries like agro-processing, textile manufacturing, and renewable energy.
“Umuahia North needs your support not just through remittances, but through real, impactful investments that create jobs, spark innovation, and bring about lasting change,” Akaliro stated.
“Imagine a future where our people don’t need to leave home to seek opportunities. Imagine a future where the products of our land are valued globally. This is within our reach if we come together and invest in the future of our people.”
One of Akaliro’s key points was the urgent need to address youth unemployment in Abia State. Citing the high number of educated young people struggling to find work, he explained that diaspora investments in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) could help alleviate this challenge by creating local job opportunities and reducing the incentive for youth to seek work outside the state.
He expressed confidence that the talents of Umuahia North youth could be harnessed to build a thriving, diverse economy with the right support from those abroad.
Additionally, Akaliro pointed out that brain drain continues to be a major issue for Abia State and Nigeria at large.
By creating better economic opportunities locally, he believes that the state can retain its brightest minds and reduce the outflow of skilled professionals.
The Umuahia North rep mentioned partnerships with banks and financial institutions, which aim to provide credit facilities and funding options specifically for diaspora-led projects.
Barr. Akaliro added that work is being done to tackle security challenges and infrastructure deficiencies in the area, aiming to create a stable and reliable environment for business operations.
“We understand the concerns surrounding security and infrastructure, and we are taking steps to address these issues to make our community a safe and profitable place to invest,” he stated.
Akaliro’s vision for his Constituency’s future rests on building strong, sustainable partnerships between the government, local businesses, and the diaspora.
He expressed optimism that with their support, Abia, Umuahia North precisely, could soon become a hub of economic activity in Nigeria.
“If we are to secure a better future for our children and generations to come, we must act now. This is our chance to build a community that stands out for its innovation, prosperity, and resilience,” Akaliro concluded.
As Abia State faces the challenges of modern development, Akaliro’s call represents a crucial step in fostering greater collaboration and unlocking the economic potential of Abians across the globe. His appeal reflects a growing trend among Nigerian leaders to harness the resources, skills, and goodwill of Nigerians in the diaspora to create a more prosperous and sustainable nation.
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