- Key Goal: Revive the Ogwe Golden Chicken Poultry farm.
- Investment: Partnering with AgroTop Israel.
- Strategy: Long-term business relationships with a ‘no exit’ approach.
- Impact: Economic boost and improved livelihoods for Abia residents.
From Moribund to Magnificent: Abia’s Poultry Farm Revival
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State is taking decisive steps to revive the long-dormant Ogwe Golden Chicken Poultry farm in Uwka West LGA. This move is a cornerstone of his administration’s plan to stimulate economic development across the state. The announcement came after a meeting with AgroTop Israel, an Israeli agro-business investment company, signaling a strong commitment to agricultural revitalization.
Israeli Partnership: A Golden Opportunity
The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku, confirmed that discussions are underway to grant AgroTop Israel a concession to manage the farm. Governor Otti emphasized that poultry farming is central to the state’s strategy to enhance the livelihoods of its residents. If satisfied with their business performance, AgroTop Israel will be given the green light to proceed.
“It will be interesting to partner in various agriculture value chains with the Israeli company which has an established presence in over 50 countries around the world,” Governor Otti stated. This partnership promises to bring international expertise and best practices to Abia’s agricultural sector.
AgroTop Israel: Ready to Invest
Ofer Zuntz, the Israeli Business Development Manager, expressed AgroTop’s keen interest in partnering with Abia, particularly in livestock and piggery. He highlighted their extensive global presence, spanning over 50 countries and five continents. Zuntz lauded Governor Otti for his open-door policy and business-oriented approach, setting the stage for a fruitful collaboration.
Max Agro Farms: The Local Link
Ejike Nwankwo, the Founding Director of Aba-based Max Agro Farms, emphasized his company’s existing relationship with AgroTop Israel. Their primary focus is on poultry production, making them a vital partner in this ambitious project. The collaboration aims to create a mutually beneficial investment that will transform Abia’s poultry industry.
Beyond Poultry: A Vision for Agriculture
The revival of the Ogwe Golden Chicken Poultry farm is just the beginning. Abia State is exploring various agricultural value chains to diversify its economy and create more opportunities for its citizens. This initiative aligns with a broader national push to increase agricultural output and reduce reliance on imports. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), investing in agriculture is crucial for sustainable development in Nigeria.
The Bigger Picture: Abia’s Economic Transformation
Reviving the poultry farm is more than just about chickens; it’s a strategic move to boost Abia’s economy, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for its residents. Governor Otti’s administration is committed to creating a conducive environment for business and investment, attracting both local and international partners to drive sustainable growth.
Other Key Players at the Meeting
The meeting included key government officials such as the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze; Chief Strategy Officer to the Government, Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu; and the Director-General, Public-Private Partnership and Investment Promotion Office, Mr. Chinedu Chijioke.