Otti Challenges MAN On Global Competitiveness, Says Abia Building Ecosystem For Industrial Growth

Cites ₦10bn BOI fund, multi-source power push; manufacturers decry N241/kWh tariff, seek industrial clusters

UMUAHIA — Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has challenged manufacturers to improve quality, scale and competitiveness of their products to compete globally.

Otti stated this when he received members of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Abia/Imo and Rivers/Bayelsa Chapters, who paid courtesy visit to his office in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA.

He said industrialists have major role in transforming Abia’s economy and can do far better despite business challenges.

He said his administration is deliberately investing in infrastructure and business environment required for industrial production to thrive, while creating avenues for manufacturers and small businesses to access finance.

He cited partnership with Bank of Industry (BOI), under which ₦10 billion funding arrangement was established to support SMEs across Abia.

He said the objective is not merely to provide financial assistance but to create ecosystem where businesses can expand, employ more people and compete beyond traditional markets for which Aba is known.

Otti added that the responsibility for the next phase of Abia’s economic transformation cannot rest solely on the government.

He urged manufacturers to improve standards and take advantage of opportunities being created.

He also urged them to embrace technology, noting that global economy is increasingly driven by manufacturing, technology and digital commerce.

According to him, the objective is to position Abia businesses to sell beyond immediate environment and participate in global commerce.

“This Government is supporting manufacturing. We are driving digital delivery. We are leaving that physical store for digital delivery,” Otti said.

He assured that government will continue to support productive sector, but businesses must equally be prepared to innovate, expand production and meet standards required to compete in increasingly integrated markets.

On electricity, Otti acknowledged concerns about cost of power.

He said government is pursuing multiple sources, including engagements with Geometric Power, TotalEnergies and Niger Delta Power Holding, to provide alternatives and reduce dependence on single source.

Earlier, MAN Chairman, Abia/Imo Chapter, Mr. Obasi Ekeagbara, commended Otti for transformation across manufacturing, power, education, roads, healthcare and agriculture.

He also commended administration for supporting distressed businesses particularly through ₦10 billion credit facility for SMEs via BOI.

He stressed access to affordable finance is critical and urged manufacturers to use funds responsibly and repay to sustain scheme.

He said manufacturers are benefiting from improved electricity supply but raised concerns about ₦241 per kilowatt-hour tariff, urging further engagement to reduce energy costs.

Ekeagbara identified inflation, limited access to foreign exchange and demands from host communities as major challenges hindering factory expansion and operations.

He called for industrial clusters in three senatorial zones.