Abia State Governor Alex Otti announces agricultural and digital development initiatives

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has announced several initiatives aimed at economic development and social inclusion. During a meeting with leaders of the Tiv Socio-Cultural Association, the Governor pledged to explore opportunities for the community to access farmland and designated markets to boost agricultural trade. He emphasized a commitment to inclusive governance, noting that all residents who contribute to the state deserve fair treatment regardless of ethnic background.

In a separate move to bolster the digital economy, Governor Otti approved the expansion of the ThriveAbia Digital Capacity Development and Mentorship Programme. Following a successful pilot phase, the program will now accommodate 1,000 young people in its first cohort. The Governor highlighted the importance of digital skills and emerging technologies, noting that the state is also collaborating with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the UNIPOD initiative. He mandated that the selection process for the expanded program be strictly merit-based through computer-based testing.