Gov Otti Reaffirms Commitment To Digital Transformation, Positions Abia As Tech Hub

‎Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging digital technology to transform Abia State’s economy, modernise the civil service, create jobs and improve delivery of public services.
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‎Governor Otti stated this on Thursday during a stakeholder engagement on the State Partnership for Regulatory Innovation in the Digital Economy (SPIRLET) initiative supported by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
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‎The Governor noted that in the last three years, his administration has laid important foundations for the growth of the state’s technology ecosystem. He disclosed that through the TechRise Skills Acquisition Programme, more than 2,200 young people have received training in in-demand ICT skills, while initiatives such as Thrive Abia, Abia Digi-Upskill and the Girls ICT Programme continue to equip Abians for opportunities in the global digital economy.
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‎Governor Otti acknowledged the partnership with the British High Commission, which he described as instrumental in advancing digital inclusion and transformation in the state. He specially commended the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Johnny Baxter, and the immediate past British High Commissioner, Dr Richard Montgomery, for their support and commitment to Abia’s development.
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‎He recalled that in August 2024, Dr Montgomery attended the graduation ceremony of the State-Level Inclusive Digital Transformation Programme funded by the United Kingdom’s Digital Access Programme, where 500 civil servants were trained and are now contributing to digital transformation across various public sector establishments.
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‎According to Governor Otti, the SPIRLET engagement provides an opportunity to review progress, strengthen the regulatory framework, remove structural barriers and attract more private-sector investment into the digital economy.
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‎He stressed that the goal of his administration is to position Abia as a thriving technology hub, attract new investors, create employment and harness digital solutions to address real challenges including unemployment, security, post-harvest losses, urban property rentals and environmental degradation.
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‎The Governor thanked Mr Johnny Baxter and his team, the Abia State Technology Innovation Team, the State Chief Information Officer and his team, and all stakeholders for their contributions to the digital transformation agenda of the state.