…Multi-sector gains signal rising confidence in state’s reform drive — Otti
Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Abia State’s economic reform agenda is yielding tangible results, with $310 million in new investments secured across agriculture and manufacturing, alongside strategic gains in healthcare, education, and tourism.
The developments, announced by Governor Alex Otti during a media parley, underscore a broad-based effort to reposition the state as a competitive destination for investment and innovation.
A major share of the inflow is tied to a $200 million agro-investment agreement with PRESCO Plc to develop large-scale palm plantations across four locations in the state. The project is expected to stimulate rural economies and generate employment.
In the industrial sector, Otti said momentum is building in Aba following the launch of a $35 million production facility by a multinational beverage company. He added that expansion plans could raise total investment in the plant to $110 million, positioning it as a major manufacturing hub with nationwide reach.
Beyond economic growth, the governor said critical social sectors are also receiving targeted interventions. The healthcare system has been bolstered by the donation of a $1 million MRI machine by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The equipment will be installed at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital to support the development of a modern diagnostic centre.
He noted, however, that staffing remains a challenge, with 567 professionals recruited so far out of the 771 required for 200 upgraded Primary Health Centres. Recruitment is ongoing, while telemedicine is being introduced to expand access and improve service delivery.
In the education sector, Otti said infrastructure upgrades are addressing long-standing challenges. A new five-megawatt substation has restored stable power supply to Abia State University after years of outages, while plans for a 15-megawatt gas-powered plant are underway to ensure sustainable energy.
Industrialisation efforts are also gaining traction, with the Abia Innovation and Industrial Park in Ukwa West expected to host projects including a modular refinery, fertiliser plant, and gas processing facilities, as investors signal readiness to move in.
Meanwhile, the state is positioning itself as a tourism destination through a partnership with the Federal Government to revitalise key historical assets, including the Ojukwu Bunker and the National War Museum. The initiative is expected to unlock new revenue streams and boost visitor traffic.
“These developments reflect a coordinated strategy to drive economic diversification, strengthen public services, and elevate Abia’s profile as an emerging hub for investment and tourism,” Otti said.
