By Peter Omopo
The Chief Executive Officer of Okamkpa Oil & Gas Ltd, Mr. Francis Chukwu, has announced plans to create more than 1,000 jobs for youths and other residents of the Edda clan in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State over the next seven years.
Chukwu disclosed this on Tuesday while addressing journalists in Owutu Edda, stating that the establishment of the energy firm was driven by the need to bring petroleum products closer to the people and reduce the hardship residents face in accessing fuel, kerosene and cooking gas, particularly during festive periods.
He explained that the decision to site the company in Edda was also motivated by a desire to stimulate local employment and economic growth in the area. According to him, the vision received encouragement from the Chairman of Edda Local Government Area, Prince Chima Ekumankama, who provided support at the early stages of the project.
“My intention in establishing Okamkpa Oil & Gas Ltd in Edda is to provide jobs for our people and ensure that those who work can support their families,” Chukwu said. “We also want to put an end to the stress our people go through travelling to neighbouring towns in search of fuel during peak periods. Our target is to employ more than 1,000 people from Edda within seven years.”
Beyond the oil and gas sector, Chukwu revealed that the company is also expanding into agribusiness and hospitality as part of a broader strategy to position the group as a one-stop business hub in the area.
On security concerns, he expressed confidence in the safety of the business environment, noting that community ownership of the project would help safeguard it. “The people own the business, and they will not allow anything to happen to it,” he said.
Chukwu commended the Ebonyi State Government under Governor Francis Nwifuru for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. He also praised the immediate past governor of the state and current Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, for his contributions to the development and visibility of Ebonyi State.
He further acknowledged the role of the Edda Local Government chairman, describing Ekumankama as a key supporter of the project. “He may not be an official partner on paper, but I consider him a partner because of the immense support he gave us from the beginning,” Chukwu added.
The Okamkpa Oil & Gas initiative is expected to contribute significantly to job creation and economic activity in Edda and its surrounding communities.
