Governor Alex Otti has unveiled a ₦306 million business support initiative aimed at helping entrepreneurs in Abia State expand their operations through technology-driven solutions and enterprise development.

The programme, which targets small and medium-scale businesses across different sectors, is part of the state government’s broader push to stimulate economic growth, encourage innovation and strengthen local enterprise capacity.

Speaking during the unveiling, Otti said the initiative was designed to support businesses with the tools, funding and digital infrastructure needed to compete in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

According to him, the future of business growth lies in innovation, digital adaptation and access to opportunities that allow entrepreneurs to scale sustainably.

The governor noted that many small businesses in Nigeria struggle not because they lack ideas, but because they face limited access to capital, technology and structured support systems capable of helping them grow beyond survival stage.

He explained that the intervention would focus on empowering entrepreneurs with resources that improve productivity, create jobs and strengthen the state’s economic base.

The initiative is also expected to encourage youth participation in enterprise and innovation by supporting startups and digitally inclined businesses seeking expansion opportunities.

Economic stakeholders at the event described the programme as a significant step toward building a more modern and competitive business environment in Abia, especially at a time when many small businesses are navigating inflation, rising operating costs and limited financing options.

Observers say the move reflects a growing trend among state governments seeking to shift attention from traditional economic models toward technology-enabled entrepreneurship as a driver of long-term growth and employment.

The administration has repeatedly stated that improving the ease of doing business, attracting investment and supporting local enterprises remain central to its economic agenda for the state.