Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Centre (WTO), has called on Southeast governors to set aside bitterness and foster unity to enhance the economic prospects of the region. She made this appeal during her keynote address at the ongoing Southeast summit on economy and security in Owerri, Imo State.
Joining the meeting via Zoom, Okonjo-Iweala commended the governors for their efforts to change the narrative despite existing challenges, emphasizing the need for unity among them. Highlighting the significant human resources within the Igbo community, she urged the governors to organize an investment forum to identify and address obstacles within the region.
The former Nigerian finance minister suggested engaging pharmaceutical companies and vaccine producers to establish a market chain in the zone, leveraging the privatization of power. Okonjo-Iweala further encouraged the governors to maximize the abundant human resources within the Igbo community, supporting the development of high-quality schools and hospitals.
Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, former Senate President and the chairman of the summit, expressed concern about the rising insecurity in the region, linking it to the need for strong statements and clear positions from Igbo leaders amidst the Biafran agitation. He urged leaders to engage agitators in robust discussions for a lasting solution to the issue.
The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, called for the restoration of Igbo values to drive economic goals, emphasizing the importance of cultural foundations in achieving progress.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State welcomed his fellow governors and pledged commitment to the cause of Ndigbo. Governors Chukwuma Soludo (Anambra), Alex Otti (Abia), Peter Mbah (Enugu), and Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi) all expressed their dedication to working for the unity and safety of Ndigbo and the region.
Founder of Zinox Computers, Chief Leo-Stan Ekeh, advocated for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), stating that it would contribute to reducing criminality in the region often masked as agitations.
The summit, attended by serving ministers, national assembly members, traditional and religious leaders, will continue its deliberations today.
