Chinese manufacturing and real-estate investor, Hendai Investment Limited, is ready to develop a multimillion-dollar modern city with an industrial hub and Dubai-inspired city tourism in Akwa Ibom State.
The Executive Director, Africa Operations, Hendai, Mr Owoedinyene Essien, said the 120- hectare project is sited close to the automobile company in Ikot Andem Itam, Itu Local Government Area of the state.
The city project, with a projected 80,000 permanent employment opportunities, had a signed agreement between the Chinese investors and Akwa Ibom State Government recently.
“The state government is ready to facilitate enabling environment and also make contributions in the area of security to make the project thrive successfully.”
The Hendai City project was flagged off in Uyo with an investment summit, ‘Building a Sustainable, Viable Industrial City in Nigeria.’ The event was chaired by former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (GCFR).
The flag-off was performed by His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem.
Essien gave assurance that the project, when completed, will, “change the economic narrative of South South Nigeria and not just Akwa Ibom State.”
Components of Hendai city will include Industrial Hub with over 20 heavy, medium and light industries already signed up for commercial purposes. A smartphone company, Niyo, is also set to begin production at Hendai Industrial city.
Also part of the million-dollar project is a Central Business District, City Tourism and recreational facilities with 500,000 tourists per year expected to enjoy African Village Resort.
Hendai Residential Township will have Diaspora Homes, Transit Studio Apartments and Consular Apartments as special residential offers.
Local investors were encouraged to participate as co-owner of the City project through houses, businesses as there are capital investment securities in Deed of Agreement, Post-dated Cheque and Property guarantee of 83 square meters of land for every N1 million investment.
‘’Akwa Ibom was chosen because of its peaceful nature. The project will not be abandoned because it is strictly private sector- driven. We are committed. You know who the Chinese are. They are result-oriented people . Also, the project has a lot of local content with good track records. So, it’s a well planned project which cannot fail.” Essien said.
