By Ejike Nnaji
Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah on Thursday 28th of September, 2023, delivered an inspiring speech addressing all the Southeast governors and stakeholders at the Southeast Economic And Security Summit held in Owerri, Imo state capital. He echoed the dreams and visions of the founding fathers of the zone and brought back to light the regional forgotten roadmap. He outlined a strategic plan that could be a stepping stone towards achieving regional prosperity in the zone.
According to him, states in the Southeast region must look for ways of collaborating to grow the region irrespective of their political ideology. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and unity among the neighboring states in the Southeast region. He highlighted that a collective effort is required to address the challenges especially insecurities, and maximize the untapped potential within our communities.
By working together, he believes that we can overcome obstacles and turn them into opportunities for growth. He outlined several key areas that require immediate attention and action. These areas include infrastructural development, education, healthcare, security, agriculture, and tourism, among others. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing these sectors, involving stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.
In addition, the governor called upon the Southeast governors to establish a task force dedicated to formulating a detailed roadmap for the region’s development. This task force will consist of experts and professionals from various fields who will work collectively to devise strategies and implement initiatives that will contribute to the Southeast progress. The Governor strongly believes that by investing in education and skills development, we can empower the youths and secure a bright future for the Southeast.
He emphasized the importance of providing quality education and vocational training to equip our young individuals with the necessary tools to succeed in a rapidly evolving global economy. Moreover, Mbah stressed the need to attract local and foreign investors to foster economic growth in the region and appealed to the sons and daughters of the region to bring back their investments home. He emphasized the need to create a conducive business environment, streamline bureaucratic processes, and provide incentives for investments. By doing so, he believes that we can create job opportunities and reduce the rate of unemployment in the Southeast region.
Mbah’s speech is a timely call that needs the support of everyone in the zone. Southeast governments should strategically invest in various sectors to promote sustainable growth and reduce the region’s dependence on oil. This visionary approach will pave the way for diversified economic development, creating new opportunities and transforming the region into a vibrant hub of innovation and progress. Additionally, they should actively foster a favorable business environment to attract companies and industries. By implementing investor-friendly policies, streamlining regulations, and providing incentives to businesses, the region will witness a significant influx of foreign and domestic investments. This diversification of industries will create a robust and resilient economy that is less susceptible to the volatility of oil prices. They should also prioritize investment in infrastructure development, enhancing connectivity within and beyond the region.
They should improve transportation networks, including highways, railways, and airports, facilitate efficient movement of goods and people, and bolster trade and tourism sectors. This strategic investment in infrastructure will further stimulate economic growth.
Furthermore, the Southeast should invest in education and research, recognizing the importance of a skilled workforce and fostering innovation. By establishing world-class educational institutions and research centers, the region should nurture a pool of talents that will drive technological advancements and push the boundaries of various sectors. Through promoting innovation and creativity, the Southeastern region will unlock new avenues for economic growth without being shackled by the limitations of traditional resource dependency.
Southeast governments should be exemplary model for other regions like it was in the 60s, and 70s, showcasing how proactive measures can lead to economic prosperity and reduce reliance on oil resources. The region should be an inspiring success story, motivating others to follow suit and contribute to the development of the nation. The insecurity which is a major problem in the zone currently, can not be completely addressed if the Governors refuse to work together in addressing it with every apparatus of the state.
KA ANAMBRA CHAWAPU
In conclusion, Gov Mbah’s address to the Southeast governors has ignited a sense of optimism and determination within all of us. It has given us hope for a brighter future, where the Southeast region can flourish and achieve its full potential.