On Tuesday, Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, inaugurated the construction of the Nortra Tractor Assembly Plant and Service Centre, an investment by Denmark's ODK Group, in Enugu City. On the same day, he also commissioned the New-Watson Doors Industry, established by a Chinese firm in Nachi, further highlighting his administration's commitment to economic development.
In his address during the flag-off ceremony, Governor Mbah emphasized that this initiative aligns with his vision of growing the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. "What we have gathered here to do today is not a mere symbolic act; it brings us closer to having at least 1,000 tractors in Enugu State by next year," he stated.
Mbah highlighted the importance of making Enugu an attractive destination for investors, explaining that the state had placed an order for 1,000 tractors, with 200 already assembled and imported, while the remaining 800 will be assembled locally. "Initiatives like Nortra not only create opportunities but also stimulate our economy and create employment for our people," he added.
The governor assured ongoing support to investors, promising to provide essential amenities, infrastructure, and security to facilitate their operations. "We are committed to identifying and supporting genuine investors who want to partner with us on our journey to a $30 billion economy," he said.
Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, Adaora Chukwu, noted that Enugu is ODK Group’s first investment destination in Africa, emphasizing the company's reputation for producing high-quality agricultural equipment that would enhance agricultural production in the state. Similarly, Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Patrick Ubru, described the establishment of the tractor plant as a significant advancement for agriculture in Enugu.
ODK Group's CEO, Morten Anderson, and Nortra Tractors' Managing Director, Philip Njoku, expressed their confidence in Enugu's potential for innovation and development as the reason for choosing the state as their entry point into Africa.
During the commissioning of the New-Watson Doors Industry, Governor Mbah praised the company for choosing to invest in Enugu, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for business success. He urged more investors, particularly from China and beyond, to consider Enugu for their investments.
In response, New-Watson's CEO, Chen Shando, expressed gratitude for the support received from the Enugu State government and its people