Special Assistant to Ebonyi State Governor on Commerce and Industry, Hon Lauretta Igwe-Nome.
By Victor Nwegede
The Ebonyi State Government has reiterated its commitment to promoting industrialisation, entrepreneurship, and skills development through strategic partnerships with credible organisations and investors.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Luke Chibueze Adonwe Human (LACH) Foundation to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Abakaliki on Monday, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Commerce and Industry, Hon. Lauretta Igwe-Nome, said the state government is open to collaborating with the foundation to advance empowerment initiatives in line with the administration’s People’s Charter of Needs agenda.
Igwe-Nome commended the foundation for its humanitarian programmes, describing it as a credible partner in the state’s drive to build a self-reliant and economically vibrant Ebonyi.
“The LACH Foundation is indeed a commendable organisation. Its activities align closely with the aims and objectives of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
"We will make every effort to partner with the NGOs like LACH Foundation for a better Ebonyi State and to enhance entrepreneurial skills among Ebonyians,” she stated.
She urged the foundation’s leadership to maintain transparency and remain true to its mission, noting that sincerity and measurable impact would attract greater government recognition and support.
“Once His Excellency, the Governor, sees the genuine impact of the foundation’s work, he will certainly be inclined to empower them. This administration has always recognised and supported credible individuals and groups through empowerment initiatives and trade fairs,” she added.
Igwe-Nome, a young political appointee and entrepreneur, highlighted the advisory role of her office in driving industrialisation, attracting investors, and promoting business growth in the state.
“Our goal is to collaborate with organisations like the LACH Foundation to empower citizens through skills development, business growth, and economic advancement.
“This administration will continue to identify and support genuine organisations that share our vision of inclusive growth, innovation, and human capital development," she maintained.
Earlier, the Founder and Director-General of the LACH Foundation, Barr. Luke Chibueze Adonwe, outlined plans to remove street beggars from the roads, rehabilitate them, and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities through skill acquisition and entrepreneurship.
Adonwe sought strategic partnership with the state government to bolster ongoing efforts to empower vulnerable groups.
He disclosed that the foundation is currently constructing a multi-purpose humanitarian settlement at Nwaomila Village, Mgbalukwu Community, in Izzi Local Government Area, to serve as a rehabilitation and empowerment centre for the homeless, elderly, and persons with disabilities.
“We are building a home for the childless, the elderly, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable citizens.
"Our aim is to take beggars off the streets, equip them with relevant skills, and make them self-reliant. Everyone deserves dignity and a chance to live productively,” Adonwe explained.
He also recounted the successful rehabilitation and employment of Mrs. Mary Ezaka, a formerly mentally challenged woman who once lived near the St. Margaret Umahi International Market in Abakaliki.
The foundation, he added, recently received an Award of Excellence from the Association of Persons with Disabilities, Ebonyi North Senatorial Zone, in recognition of its humanitarian service and commitment to social inclusion.
According to Adonwe, partnering with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry would help improve access to government grants, cooperative loans, and industrial mentorship opportunities particularly for entrepreneurs in the informal sector.
“Our foundation believes in sincerity and transparency. Together with the Ministry, we can create sustainable livelihoods, reduce youth unemployment, and strengthen Ebonyi’s economic base,” he noted.
He further revealed that the foundation is collaborating with electricity distribution companies to promote responsible energy use and advocate for consumer rights through cooperative engagement.
With the government’s assurance of partnership, the collaboration between the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the LACH Foundation is expected to deepen grassroots empowerment, stimulate industrial development, and enhance the welfare of Ebonyi State’s most vulnerable citizens.
