Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State on Monday appointed former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji, to chair a 15-member Economic Committee charged with driving industrialisation in the state.

Inaugurating the team in Abakaliki, Nwifuru tasked members to tackle erratic power supply, harness solid minerals, and guide government efforts to revive industries.

“We want to industrialise this state and show the world we have what it takes to do business,” the governor said. “We must sit down and bring in people to guide us. Our manifesto is christened the People’s Charter of Needs.”

He specifically urged the committee to advise on the revival of the Nigeria Cement Company (NIGERCEM), the establishment of another cement factory, and the setting up of a salt production plant.

“We are the Salt of the Nation, yet we don’t produce salt anywhere in Ebonyi,” Nwifuru noted. “We also lack the required energy for industrialisation. I am happy the chairman is a former Minister of Power.”

Responding, Nnaji commended Nwifuru’s “vision, boldness, and courage” in prioritising industrial growth.

Other members of the committee include Chief Ben Oka, Chief Mrs. Augustina Nwaoma Ekuma, Dr. Joe Abah, Gen. Abel Obi Umahi, Chief Chibuike Orogwu, Chief Dominic Nwibo, Chief Elechi Innocent Ojiugwo, Anayo Omoke, Dr. Mark Abani, High Chief Ifeanyi Clement Okorie, Dr. Edward Nkwegu, and Mr. Mike Chukwu. Associate Prof. Ben Uruchi Odoh will serve as secretary.