Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Institute of Professional Economists and Policy Management, IPEPM, has congratulated Chief John Abu, the newly appointed Resident Minister for Southern Sierra Leone, charging him to prioritize industrialization as a critical strategy for driving regional and national economic growth.
This is as the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, on Friday swore in Chief Abu as the Resident Minister, Southern Sierra Leone.
IPEPM’s Director of Emerging Knowledge, Policy, and Partnerships, Mr. Friday Udoh, said Chief Abu’s leadership offers a unique opportunity to address longstanding economic challenges in the resource-rich region.
Udoh, in a congratulatory note, emphasized the need for policies that promote industrial development to tackle poverty, unemployment, and infrastructure deficits.
“We believe that Chief Abu’s track record and leadership experience will not only bring prosperity to the Southern Region but also drive long-term economic development for Sierra Leone,” Udoh said in a statement.
He highlighted the importance of creating a resilient business environment through research, development, and partnerships that attract investments, facilitate trade, and improve the ease of doing business.
Udoh, a Ph.D. scholar in Petroleum Economics at the Emerald Energy Institute, University of Port Harcourt, stressed that industrialization policies must be at the forefront of Abu’s agenda.
IPEPM also called on the minister to engage with private sector stakeholders and development agencies to address infrastructure challenges, policy inconsistencies, and institutional inefficiencies that have hindered investment in the region
“We all believe that you will set a new record as the Resident Minister. The Institute of Professional Economists and Policy Management would appreciate it if you could look into industrialization as a long-term solution for the increasing population and serve as a stimulant to increase activities in other areas of the economy.
“Industrialization, when pursued will create an impact positively on the wellbeing of citizens through an increase in production, national income growth, either directly or indirectly which corresponds to higher national income and prosperity of Sierra Leone economy.”
The Southern Region is endowed with significant natural resources, including gold, diamonds, rutile, iron ore, bauxite, and hydrocarbons. Udoh expressed optimism that Abu’s tenure would unlock the region’s full economic potential, benefiting both the local population and the national economy.
“We are confident that Chief Abu will set a new standard for leadership in Sierra Leone. Industrial policies that foster economic diversification and reduce reliance on imports are critical for achieving sustainable development, and we look forward to collaborating with the Minister’s team to support his industrialization efforts, ensuring a stronger and more resilient Sierra Leonean economy,” Udoh added.
Meanwhile, Chief John Abu, the newly appointed Resident Minister for Southern Sierra Leone, has pledged to work collaboratively with government agencies and stakeholders to promote unity and fast-track economic growth.
“My leadership will focus on reducing import bills through the promotion of Import Substitution Industries to tackle poverty, unemployment and capital flights for improved public revenue, infrastructure and healthcare delivery,” Abu said.
