The Abia Technology & Innovation Network (ATIN) has taken a significant step toward strengthening the state’s tech ecosystem through a high-level Ecosystem Roundtable Discussion held at Sun Heaven Hotels, Umuahia.
The event brought together government officials, investors, academia, media, and tech entrepreneurs to explore collaboration opportunities, identify challenges, and harness available resources to accelerate technological innovation in Abia State.
Speaking after the roundtable, Mr. Daniel Chinagozi, Chairman of ATIN and CEO of Innovation Growth Hub, described the past two days as pivotal for the state’s technology ecosystem. He noted that the initiative began with an Ecosystem Tour across Aba, where over 17 tech hubs, incubators, and makerspaces were identified as key stakeholders driving innovation.
He further revealed that the Abia State Government has demonstrated a strong commitment to the sector by investing in Internet infrastructure, power supply, capacity building, and business process outsourcing (BPOs). A significant milestone from the event was the government’s partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), which has led to a sealed deal for BPO expansion in Abia, creating employment opportunities for young tech professionals.
Another major highlight was the launch of the Abia Technology and Innovation Ecosystem Report (2014–2024), which provides a comprehensive review of the state’s tech progress over the past decade. The report, now available at www.abiatechnology.ng, is expected to serve as a critical policy guide and attract investments into the sector.
The discussion also featured the unveiling of the Export Growth Lab Initiative, a project being developed in partnership with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This initiative aims to support Agri-Tech and manufacturing startups by equipping them with resources to expand their businesses beyond Nigeria, positioning Abia as a leader in technology-driven exports.
With a strong emphasis on building a youth-driven economy, the roundtable underscored the need for government-private sector collaboration to establish a thriving, competitive, and globally relevant tech ecosystem in Abia.
The Abia Technology and Innovation Network (ATIN) reaffirmed its mission to foster innovation, support startups, and drive economic growth through technology. This roundtable discussion marks a significant step in aligning Abia’s tech ecosystem with global trends and future opportunities.
