United Kingdom pledges deeper digital and economic cooperation with Abia State

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic and digital cooperation with Abia State, Nigeria. During a two-day visit to the state, British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter met with Governor Alex Otti to discuss expanding partnerships in trade, investment, energy, education, and innovation.

A central focus of the engagement is the State-Level Policy, Regulatory and Institutional Reforms Enabling Digital Transformation (SPRIRET) initiative. The UK is supporting Abia’s efforts to establish sound regulatory frameworks necessary for digital growth. To date, the UK has supported approximately 450 civil servants in the state to upgrade their digital skills.

Infrastructure development is also underway, including the creation of community-owned connectivity hubs to expand affordable digital access. An operational hub has been established in Okporoenyi Community, with another being developed in Arochukwu. The UK aims to leverage these foundations to stimulate further investment from British companies and foster sustainable economic growth through improved digital literacy and infrastructure.