Otti Says Abia Moving From Trading to Manufacturing, Digital Economy

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has said his administration is working to transform the state from an economy largely driven by traditional trading into one built around manufacturing, technology and digital commerce.

Otti said the government’s objective is to strengthen the entrepreneurial strength for which Abia is known while creating an environment that allows businesses to produce locally and compete beyond the Nigerian market.

The governor spoke in Umuahia during the Igbo Day Lecture and Dinner organised by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide under the theme, “The Igbo Charter and Development of Ala Igbo.”

He explained that traditional markets would continue to play an important role in the economy but said the changing nature of global commerce requires businesses to embrace technology and new methods of reaching customers.

According to Otti, entrepreneurs should no longer depend entirely on physical shops and markets to sell their products, as digital platforms now provide opportunities to reach customers across Nigeria and other parts of the world.

He said Abia is also focusing on manufacturing as part of efforts to increase local production and create more economic opportunities, particularly for young people.

Aba, the commercial centre of the state, has long been known for locally manufactured shoes, clothes, leather products and other goods produced by small and medium-sized businesses.

Otti said his administration wants to build on that existing manufacturing base by creating conditions that would allow local businesses to expand their operations and become more competitive.

The governor also highlighted investments in technology and digital skills, saying the government is preparing young people to participate in the rapidly changing global economy.

He cited the state’s TechRise initiative as one of the programmes being used to equip young people with relevant technology skills and connect them with employment opportunities.

Otti said some beneficiaries of the programme are already working remotely for international technology companies while remaining in Aba, demonstrating that young people do not necessarily have to leave the state to access opportunities in the global digital economy.

He maintained that the transition from traditional commerce to manufacturing and technology would require sustained investment in infrastructure, skills development and an environment that encourages private businesses to grow.

Speaking on the development of the wider South-East, the governor also called for stronger cooperation among the people of the region, arguing that economic development would be easier to achieve through unity and collective action.

Otti assured Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide of the continued support of his administration and said Abia would remain committed to policies designed to expand production, encourage entrepreneurship and create opportunities for residents.

The governor said the long-term goal is to position Abia as a major centre for manufacturing and digital commerce while preserving the entrepreneurial culture that has historically made the state an important commercial hub in Nigeria.

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