Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has appealed to investors and business owners who previously relocated from the state to reconsider their decision and return, assuring them of a more conducive environment for investment and business growth.
Otti made the appeal while highlighting his administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure, strengthen security and create an environment capable of attracting new investments to the state.
The governor said his administration was focused on rebuilding confidence in Abia’s economy and positioning the state as a competitive destination for businesses and investors. He noted that improving the business environment remained essential to creating jobs, expanding economic opportunities and increasing the state’s internally generated revenue.
According to Otti, the government has been implementing reforms aimed at addressing some of the challenges that have discouraged businesses from operating or expanding in the state. These include investments in road infrastructure, urban renewal, security and other areas considered critical to economic development.
He appealed particularly to Abia indigenes and business owners who moved their operations to other states because of unfavourable conditions in the past, urging them to consider returning and taking advantage of the emerging opportunities.
The governor stressed that his administration was committed to building an environment where businesses could operate without unnecessary obstacles and where investors could have greater confidence in the state.
He also said the government would continue to engage the private sector and other stakeholders in its efforts to transform Abia into a stronger commercial and industrial hub.
Otti noted that Abia has significant economic potential, particularly in areas such as manufacturing, trade, technology, agriculture and small and medium-sized enterprises. He said unlocking this potential would require sustained investment in infrastructure and policies that support private-sector participation.
The governor’s administration has continued to promote Abia as an investment destination, with the government seeking to attract both domestic and foreign investors while encouraging existing businesses to expand their operations.
Otti therefore called on investors who had left the state to reassess the situation and consider returning, assuring them that the government was working to create conditions that would support sustainable business growth.
He said the ultimate objective was to build an economy in which businesses could thrive, residents could access more employment opportunities and Abia could regain its position as one of Nigeria’s major commercial centres.
Remove repetitive statements about investors returning