Abia State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Okey Kanu, has announced that the Abia Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP) modular refinery is set to commence operations by 2025, signaling a significant economic development for the state.
The upcoming modular refinery, a part of the Abia Industrial Innovation Park project, is anticipated to not only boost the state’s revenue but also generate numerous job opportunities for both direct and indirect employment.
Kanu highlighted the positive impact the refinery is expected to have on the state’s economy, emphasizing its role in providing refined products for the people of Abia. He expressed confidence that the project would meet its scheduled start date, underscoring its importance to the government’s agenda.
“The project will help to provide refined products for the people of Abia as well as increase our revenue base as a state. So, it is a project that is very important to this government, and every effort is being put in place to ensure that the date is met,” stated Commissioner Okey Kanu.
Furthermore, the commissioner shared that the refinery is projected to create 2,000 direct jobs and numerous indirect employment opportunities, particularly benefiting the youth in Abia. He revealed that various investors in the petroleum industry have expressed interest in establishing operations in the state, aligning with efforts to expand job opportunities.
The announcement follows the commencement of operations at the Dangote Refinery, where the final six million barrels of crude oil were delivered. The state government is optimistic about leveraging the petroleum and mineral resources in the region, paving the way for increased economic growth and prosperity.
As the Abia Industrial Innovation Park modular refinery progresses towards completion, it symbolizes a strategic move by the state to harness its natural resources, stimulate economic growth, and address unemployment challenges.