By Peter Okore, Umuahia
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, says his administration is deliberately prioritising investments in productive ventures capable of generating long-term economic value, rather than consumption-driven projects.
Otti stated this on Monday while unveiling a ₦306 million technology-enabled business grant, code-named “NKATA”, designed to support businesses across the 17 local government areas of the state.
The governor said the initiative aligns with his administration’s vision of building a productive, self-reliant and innovation-driven economy, while empowering entrepreneurs and expanding opportunities for young people.
According to him, the programme forms part of broader economic empowerment efforts aimed at equipping Abians with relevant skills and support to become self-reliant and job creators.
He explained that the ₦306 million intervention was deliberately structured to be inclusive, ensuring beneficiaries are drawn from different categories across the state.
“The ₦306 million is available, but beneficiaries must meet all the necessary conditions,” Otti said.
“In a few months’ time, I want to hear that this intervention has yielded results, not just in monetary terms, but in job creation, poverty reduction, and empowerment of our people.
“We have gone forth and back on this, and we are convinced that this is one of the ways to support and help our people,” he added.
The governor urged beneficiaries to make responsible use of the opportunity by expanding their businesses, creating jobs, and contributing meaningfully to the state’s economic growth.
Presenting details of the initiative, the Director-General of the Abia State Technology and Skills Acquisition Centre (ATSAC), Mr. Peter Ukonu, described the programme as a strategic intervention aimed at supporting businesses, reducing poverty, and boosting employment across the state.
He explained that unlike conventional grant schemes, the NKATA programme would not disburse cash directly to beneficiaries. Instead, support would be channelled through technology service providers to ensure proper utilisation for business growth and productivity.
“We are not giving cash to businesses directly. We are actually doing so through technology service providers,” Ukonu said.
He added that the initiative would connect businesses with technology providers, including software developers, hardware suppliers, and internet service providers, to drive digital adoption, automation, and artificial intelligence integration.
According to him, the programme also includes mentorship support, with experts, including those in the diaspora, guiding applicants in developing viable business proposals and matching them with appropriate technological solutions.
Ukonu further stated that eligible participants are Abia residents who operate businesses and pay taxes within the state, adding that the goal is to help businesses transition from survival to growth, improve productivity, and create jobs.