Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has called on Igbo traders to diversify their business interests beyond conventional trading and embrace manufacturing and digital commerce. This was stated during the Igbo Day Lecture and Dinner organised by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in Umuahia. The event had the theme, “The Igbo Charter and Development of Ala Igbo.” Otti emphasized the need for Igbo traders to adapt to the changing global economy.
Otti's comments were made against the backdrop of increasing competition from Chinese traders in Lagos. He noted that Abia and Ndigbo, historically known for trading, are deliberately shifting their focus towards manufacturing and technology-driven commerce. The governor highlighted that his administration is supporting manufacturing and driving digital delivery. This shift aims to enable Abia entrepreneurs to compete globally rather than remain dependent on conventional physical markets.
The governor mentioned that digital commerce would be a key area of focus, allowing entrepreneurs to reach a broader audience. He cited Alibaba as an example of where Abia is headed in terms of digital trading. Otti emphasized that the world is moving towards digital delivery, and Igbo traders must adapt to remain competitive. His administration is investing heavily in digital skills for young people, with some Abians trained under its TechRise initiative already working for global technology companies.
Otti assured the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo of his administration's support. He described the theme of the celebration, “Njikọ Ka” or “Unity is Supreme,” as apt, reflecting the importance of unity in diversity. The governor expressed his commitment to the development of Abia, assuring that the state would continue to witness significant transformation under his leadership.
The Igbo Day Lecture and Dinner was organized by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, a prominent Igbo organization. The event brought together notable figures from across the Igbo community to discuss issues related to the development of Ala Igbo. Otti's address was well-received, with many attendees acknowledging the need for Igbo traders to adapt to the changing business landscape.
Abia State has been making efforts to promote entrepreneurship and digital skills among its youth. The TechRise initiative is one such program aimed at equipping young people with the skills needed to compete in the global technology industry. Otti's administration has laid a solid foundation for the development of Abia, with a focus on driving economic growth through innovation and technology.
The call by Otti for Igbo traders to shift focus beyond conventional trading is seen as a strategic move to enhance their competitiveness. By embracing manufacturing and digital commerce, Igbo traders can tap into new markets and opportunities. This shift is expected to have a positive impact on the economy of Abia State and the broader Igbo community.
Key points
- Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, urges Igbo traders to focus on manufacturing and digital commerce to compete globally.
- Otti's administration is investing in digital skills for young people through initiatives like TechRise.
- The shift towards manufacturing and digital commerce aims to enable Abia entrepreneurs to compete with international traders, including those from China.
