Abia To Build Modular Refinery

The Abia Government on Wednesday signed a joint venture agreement with two companies, AG Goldtrust Limited and Whitepage International Concept Limited, to establish a modular refinery and develop the hydrocarbon deposits in Ukwa West Local Government Area.

The Secretary to the State Government SSG of Abia state Dr Eme Okoro, confirmed that the agreement was signed at his office in Government House, Umuahia.

The SSG described the signing of the agreement as a `business development’ that would enhance the exploration of the entire value chain of hydrocarbon resources in the state.

“As we sign this agreement, we want to alert you that we are sticklers to performance that is linked and integrated to results,” the Abia SSG said.

He said that the state government expects the activity to transform into a process that would create jobs and give the people the opportunity to own oil blocs.

“The signing of agreement is an activity which we expect will be galvanized into results and yield revenues either in human capacity development or empowering the people who own the area,’’ Okoro said.

The Managing Director of AG Goldtrust Limited, Mr. Freeman George-Amadim, in his remarks gave the assurance that his company will deliver, as they are committed and have the capacity to meet the terms of the agreement.

Also lending his voice, the Managing Director of Whitepage International Company Limited, Yakubu Mohammed described the project as one that can only be achieved with the active participation of the government and the people.