The Ebonyi State House of Assembly has passed two executive bills aimed at strengthening public-private partnerships and boosting investment opportunities in the state. The bills, transmitted by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, were considered and passed during an emergency plenary on Monday at the Assembly complex, Nkaliki Road, Abakaliki, presided over by Speaker, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa.
The first bill seeks to provide a legal framework for Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), establish an Office of Public-Private Partnerships, and enhance infrastructure and science development in the state. The second bill establishes the Ebonyi State Investment Promotion Agency to regulate, promote, and facilitate investment while creating a conducive environment for investors.
During deliberations, the Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Nkemka Okoro Onuma, commended the governor for initiating the bills, noting that they would not only institutionalize private sector collaboration but also create employment opportunities.
“It is not a new concept. It is just solidifying the idea into an agency. It will create jobs, enhance amenities, and give Ebonyi the edge to attract serious businesses,” Onuma said.
Supporting the bill, Hon. Oluchukwu Ukie Ezeali, representing Afikpo East Constituency, stressed that the legislation would guarantee protection for private investors, both local and foreign. He urged colleagues to ensure a speedy passage.
“There is a guarantee that anyone coming to partner in Ebonyi has the protection of the law. This will encourage more investment in the state,” he remarked.
In the same vein, Barr. Aloysius Nwodo, representing Ebonyi North West Constituency, described the twin bills as strategic to investor confidence, job creation, and infrastructural development. He emphasized that the initiatives would position Ebonyi to compete with international standards.
Following the clause-by-clause consideration in the committee of the whole, the bills were passed and cited as HAB No. 12 of 2025 and HAB No. 13 of 2025. The Speaker subsequently directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Edene Uche Blessing, to notify Governor Nwifuru of the Assembly’s approval.
In a related development, the Assembly also approved a proposal for the review, reconciliation, and recovery of Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) dividends and unmerited oil revenue due to Ebonyi State.
The session was adjourned to another legislative day after a motion moved by the Chief Whip, Hon. Onuma, and seconded by Hon. Friday Ogbuewu of Ezza South Constituency.
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