Otti woos investors, says Abia open for business

Abia State governor, Dr Alex Otti, has assured domestic and international investors that the state is open for business; saying ongoing reforms and infrastructure development are creating an enabling environment for enterprises to thrive.

Otti gave the assurance at the 2026 Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) Meet the Governor Series, themed, “Repositioning Abia for Enterprise, Industrialisation and Sustainable Economic Growth.”

The governor, who highlighted investment opportunities across the state, attributed Abia’s growing economic prospects to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of its people, as well as their increasing adoption of technology.

Looking ahead to the next decade, Otti said sustained leadership and effective governance would be critical to transforming the lives of Abians and positioning the state to compete favourably in the global economy.

The governor added: “In 10 years’ time, I see an Abia that can compete globally. If Abia were to be a country, it would be the fourth largest in the world.”

According to him, Abia’s transformation has moved beyond promises, with the administration focusing on restoring fiscal governance and delivering infrastructure and other projects capable of unlocking investment opportunities.

He said infrastructure remained critical to building a competitive business environment, noting that roads facilitate the movement of goods; electricity supports productivity and improved connectivity drives commerce.

He noted that investment also required an educated, healthy and productive workforce, stressing that land and infrastructure alone were not enough to attract and retain businesses.

Otti disclosed that 15 per cent of the state’s budget had been allocated to healthcare, meeting the Abuja Declaration benchmark.

He also said nine schools had been completed and were ready for use, while 79 others were undergoing renovation and retrofitting. According to him, two smart schools had been completed and commissioned, with additional smart schools under construction.