‘Igbos Serve as the Driving Force Behind Investments in Nigeria’ —  Reps. Speaker, Abbas

On Friday, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen asserted that significant investments in Nigeria are predominantly driven by individuals from the South-East region.

He urged Igbo leaders to actively participate in discussions with the Federal Government to tackle their grievances. Speaking at the launch of the ‘Peace in the South East Project’ (PISE-P), initiated by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, the Speaker expressed worry about the economic repercussions of the region’s agitations. Despite the South-East’s economic strength, these issues have led to significant losses.

Addressing the gathering in Bende, Abia State, Abbas stressed the importance of peace in the South-East for the overall progress and harmony of Nigeria. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Musa Krishi, Abbas acknowledged that PISE-P originated from his deputy’s deep affection for the zone and concern about the escalating insecurity casting a dark shadow over the region.

Abbas lamented the ongoing insecurity, stating that it continues to disrupt daily life and significantly hampers socio-economic activities in a region known for its resourcefulness and economic enterprise. He described the project as a “historic and patriotic endeavor,” quoting Abbas as saying, “Between 1956 and 1965, the then Eastern region was regarded as the fastest-growing economy in Africa and Asia. Indeed, the South-East has remained an economic powerhouse in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, leading in trade and commerce.”

Highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo people, Abbas acknowledged their contributions to the Nigerian economy, emphasizing their influence in various sectors. Despite the challenges, he noted that the South-East remains a significant player in literature, academia, the creative industry, and more.

The Speaker acknowledged that, despite the region’s natural endowment, challenges such as separatist agitations, unrest, and terrorism have had colossal consequences on lives and property. To effectively address these issues, he emphasized the need for stakeholders to understand their root causes.