Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has urged Igbo entrepreneurs to move beyond conventional trading and embrace manufacturing, technology and digital commerce to remain competitive in the global economy.
Otti made the call on Monday, September 28, 2026, in Umuahia during the Igbo Day Lecture and Dinner organised by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
The event, themed “The Igbo Charter and Development of Ala Igbo,” provided a platform for discussions on the economic and social development of the South-East.
Addressing concerns over increasing competition from foreign traders, particularly Chinese traders operating in Nigerian markets, Otti said the response should be for Igbo entrepreneurs to move into higher value areas of the economy rather than remain solely dependent on conventional retailing.
The governor said Abia, traditionally known for its strong trading culture, was already shifting towards manufacturing and technology-driven commerce.
“We are leaving that level of trading. In Abia, we have markets. The markets are important. But we are moving from that level of marketing to manufacturing,” Otti said.
He explained that his administration was supporting manufacturing while promoting digital platforms that would allow businesses to reach customers beyond physical markets.
According to the governor, digital commerce could open access to international markets and enable businesses in Abia and across the South-East to compete more effectively in the global economy.
“So, Abia is both manufacturing and trading. But we are moving from conventional trading to digital trading. That is where the world is going. You either embrace it, or you risk being left behind,” he said.
Otti also disclosed that his administration was investing in digital skills development for young people through technology-focused initiatives designed to prepare them for opportunities in the global economy.
He said some young Abians trained under the state’s TechRise programme were already working remotely for international technology companies from Aba.
The governor further pledged his administration’s support for the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and described the theme of the celebration, “Njikọ Ka,” meaning “Unity is Supreme,” as timely.
He said unity remained important to the collective development of the Igbo people and the economic transformation of the South-East.
Otti assured that his administration would continue to pursue policies aimed at strengthening Abia’s economic base, promoting industrialisation, developing digital skills and creating opportunities for residents.
He added that the state had laid what he described as a strong foundation for sustained development and expressed confidence that Abia would continue to record progress.
By Enitan Mudashiru | MUK TV News
