In line with his promise to make Aba a global commercial hub, Governor Alex Otti on Tuesday signed into law the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) bill, which was passed on December 8 by the Abia State House of Assembly.
The GADA, which is the first bill to be signed into law by the Governor since his assumption of office, seeks to give special developmental focus to Aba and encourage investors, among others.
Speaking shortly after assenting to the bill, Otti said establishing the GADA would give Aba special attention as a commercial hub, as reported by Daily Post.
The Governor said that Aba combines light manufacturing, heavy manufacturing, micro, small and medium-scale businesses and other trading activities.
He congratulated the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, his colleagues in the House of Assembly and members of the State Executive Council on the passage of the executive bill and stated that with the law, Aba rejuvenation has achieved legal backing to bring about the needed development.
He said via his X account, I am delighted to announce that I have signed the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) Bill into law. This marks the first bill I have signed since assuming office as the Governor of Abia State, underscoring our commitment to transforming Aba into a modern and prosperous city.
“GADA is a specialized agency tasked with overseeing the development of Aba, not only as the commercial hub of Abia but also of the entire South East Nigeria. Aba is a city with immense potential, boasting a vibrant and diverse economy that encompasses trading, manufacturing, and SMEs. GADA will ensure that Aba receives the necessary infrastructural, environmental, and social support to thrive and attract more businesses and investments.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the Speaker, Rt. Hon Emmanuel Emeruwa, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Austin Meregini, the leadership, and members of the State House of Assembly for their swift passage of this bill. I also extend my appreciation to the Attorney General, Barr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, the SSG, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, the Director General of GADA, Mr. Uche Ukeje, the Senior Special Assistant on legislative matters, Hon. Lukeman Ukara, and all the Commissioners and senior aides who worked tirelessly to make this bill a reality.”
