Umuezena Community in Umudim Nnewi, Anambra State, has showered encomiums on the Chief Executive Officer of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM), Innocent Chukwuma (OFR), on his plans to extend his factory in the community.
Chukwuma visited Umuezena on Sunday, April 26 where he was warmly received by leaders, women, youths and other stakeholders.
Austin Manuel, his close ally, explained that the visit was to officially thank the community for their unanimous agreement to sell a portion of Akwu Umuezena land situated at Umuezena in Umudim Nnewi, for the expansion of IVM.
He observed that the community had shown great support for the growth of IVM and will reap the benefits as the project will attract more development, employ many youths and improve the area’s economic activities.
Manuel commended Innoson for seeing the need to extend the factory in Nnewi, a decision he asserted will further boost the image of the town.
Welcoming Chukwuma and his entourage, Obi of Umuezena, Chief Martin Obimma, described Innoson as a man of wisdom who has always prioritised the development of Nnewi.
Applauded Innoson for his vision and expansion idea, Obimma urged him to “disregard the activities of some selfish people trying to become enemies of Umuezena’s progress”.
The Obi warned the misguided elements to desist from actions that will cripple the development of the land, noting it that was sold for the good of Nnewi.
In separate remarks, Obi of Ezengwuakpu Kindred, Obi Enemo Okwuchukwu Anthony; Obi of Ezenwanze Kindred, Chief Eziukwu Okonkwo; Obi of Dalomazue Kindred, Chief Barth Okoli; and Obi of Dimokuanyo Kindred, Chief Sir Jimbo Hamada, who represented the other four kindreds in Umuezena, expressed their gratitude to Chukwuma.
They condemned the recent demonstration by some people against the Innoson’s plan to build the factory, describing them as “hired protesters”.
Chairman, Committee on Land, Akachukwu Nwachukwu thanked Chukwuma for his development schemes and urged Umuzenna indigenes home and abroad to support the project as Innoson had fulfilled all financial obligations on the land.
President-General, Umuezena Youth, Comrade Dozie Mmadueke, confirmed that some youths had been employed and were currently involved in clearing of the site as well as construction.
Speaking, Ifeoma Obiora and Lolo Nonye Ndukuba of Umuokpu and Iyom-di of Umuezena respectively, expressed their appreciation to Innoson and guaranteed that women of the community were in total in support of IVM.
Chief Gabriel Chukwuma, on behalf of Innoson Group, revealed that Innocent Chukwuma got offers from different parts of Nigeria for the factory extension but insisted that the project be sited in Nnewi.
Assuring that the community will not regret their decision to sell the land to Innoson, Chukwuma disclosed that Umuezena people will gain access roads and more jobs.
Others in attendance at the meeting were Land Committee members who representiled the five kindred. They are Mr. Okechukwu Okonkwo, Prince Oliver Obimma, Mr Jerry Obodogha, Mr. Cletus Okonkwo and Mr. Cyprian Ekechukwu.