Abia State Shifts Focus from Trading to Manufacturing and Digital Commerce

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has announced a major shift in the state’s economic focus from traditional trading to manufacturing and digital commerce. He made this statement on Monday in Umuahia during the Igbo Day Lecture and Dinner organized by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

Otti emphasized that the future of business lies in technology and digital delivery. He noted that Abia and the Igbo people, who have a strong history in trading, are now intentionally moving towards manufacturing and tech-driven commerce.

Addressing concerns about Chinese traders competing with local entrepreneurs in Lagos, Otti stated, “We are leaving that level of trading.” He highlighted the importance of markets in Abia but insisted that the state is transitioning from physical sales to digital platforms. He mentioned Alibaba as an example of the direction they are heading.

The governor explained that developing digital commerce would allow Abia entrepreneurs to compete on a global scale instead of relying on traditional markets. He urged that embracing this change is essential to avoid being left behind.

Otti also mentioned that his administration is investing in digital skills for young people. He noted that some individuals trained under the TechRise initiative are already employed by global tech companies.

In his remarks, Otti expressed his commitment to supporting the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and highlighted the theme of the event, “Njikọ Ka,” which means “Unity is Supreme.” He described it as a fitting reminder of the importance of unity in diversity. The governor assured that his administration has laid a strong foundation for Abia’s development and that significant changes are on the way.