BY POLYCARP IFEANYI / ONITSHA
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has charged members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) comprising Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu States branch to join hands in his crusade to industrialise the state.
Making the call yesterday in Onitsha at the Business/Town Hall Meeting he had with members of the Manufacturers Association, Governor Soludo said he had been expecting the interface session since he assumed office, stressing that he was aware of the existence of industries at Harbour Industrial Layout, Onitsha.
The governor recalled that during his campaign tour, he visited the area.
He further assured members of the Association that he is willing to partner with them, saying, “We have taken note of all your challenges”.
“Our major agenda for the state is transformation, industrialization and manufacturing is very critical for our state to grow economically and that is why we have to partner with Manufacturers”, he told the audience.
“Let the partnership be intentional because our aim is to achieve viable Anambra and everybody should be involved”, he added.
Earlier, the President General of Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association, Chief Humphrey Anuna stated that their initiatives are commendable.
Chief Anuna said, “Manufacturers are inevitable in developing economy, adding that they are drivers of industrialization, sustainable economic growth and development in Nigeria”.
His words: “I am impressed for the Manufacturers initiative to partner with the State Government. This is a welcomed development because with this their singular effort, sky is their starting point. Governor Soludo is very much committed to develop our state in all ramifications.
“Whatever he said, he will do it. For him to accept the partnership, he must fullfil the promise and give the Manufacturers maximum support. So, what the Manufacturers need is to give him cooperation”
The Onwa Ora- eri as he is fondly called affirmed that the state Governor is fighting to eradicate multiple taxation and touting activities in the state.
“ASMATA as a body of traders is equally on its own assisting government by tracking down touts who are perpetrating illegal taxation and unauthorized levies in the state
“As for us who are in trading activities, we are fighting seriously to ensure that touting activities are eradicated by tracking them down in order to reduce illegal taxation and unauthorized revenue to zero. So, we can not relent until these criminal elements are chased a way from our state”, said.
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