Otti urges investors who left Abia to return as state targets new businesses

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has urged investors who previously relocated from the state to return, saying recent infrastructure improvements have created new opportunities for businesses.

Otti made the appeal while commissioning a new hospitality facility in Aba.

The governor said his administration had spent the past three years improving infrastructure and the wider business environment to make the state more attractive to investors.

He pointed particularly to developments in Aba, including the rehabilitation of Port Harcourt Road and the clearing of obstructions and debris that had previously affected commercial activities.

Otti argued that improved roads and other infrastructure could help businesses operate more effectively and unlock fresh investment opportunities.

Those assessments reflect the governor’s account of his administration’s record.

He also encouraged residents and business owners who had left Aba to reconsider returning before emerging opportunities are taken up by other investors.

According to Otti, the state government intends to continue providing infrastructure and other conditions needed to support private-sector activity.

Otti targets jobs and higher economic activity

The governor made the comments while commissioning ORIS Signature Hotel, whose chief executive, Greg Okafor, he praised for investing in Aba.

Otti said investments of that nature could create jobs, contribute to economic activity, increase internally generated revenue and support the hospitality sector.

The state government has been pursuing several investment initiatives this year.

In March, Abia announced plans to work with the African Development Bank on a proposed $200 million Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone project, with the state expected to provide counterpart funding and supporting infrastructure.

The government has also been working on an industrial policy intended to support investment and industrial development in the state