From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
The Abia Technology and Innovation Network (ATIN) is striving towards strengthening the state’s tech ecosystem through a high-level Ecosystem roundtable meeting held at Sun Heaven Hotels, Umuahia.
Speaking at the event, which brought together government officials, investors, academia, media, and tech entrepreneurs to explore collaboration opportunities, Daniel Chinagozi, Chairman of ATIN and CEO of Innovation Growth Hub, described the meeting as pivotal for the state’s technology ecosystem.
He noted that the initiative began with an Ecosystem Tour across Aba, where over 17 tech hubs, incubators, and maker spaces were identified as key stakeholders driving innovation.
He revealed that the Abia State Government has demonstrated a strong commitment to the sector by investing in Internet infrastructure, power supply, capacity building, and business process outsourcing (BPOs).
“A significant milestone was the government’s partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), which has led to a sealed deal for BPO expansion in Abia, creating employment opportunities for young tech professionals.
“Another major highlight was the launch of the Abia Technology and Innovation Ecosystem Report (2014–2024), which provides a comprehensive review of the state’s tech progress over the past decade.”
The event featured the unveiling of the Export Growth Lab Initiative, a project being developed in partnership with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“This initiative aims to support Agri-Tech and manufacturing startups by equipping them with resources to expand their businesses beyond Nigeria, positioning Abia as a leader in technology-driven exports.”
ATIN reaffirmed its mission to foster innovation, support startups, and drive economic growth through technology