News in Brief:
– Abia state governor, Alex Otti, seeks partnership with Israel to boost economic development in areas like agriculture and digital technology.
– Otti highlighted the state’s human capital and plans for an innovation center as reasons for investment.
Abia state governor, Alex Otti, has expressed a strong desire to partner with the government of Israel to develop its economic and technological potential. He made his thoughts known to the press when the Isreali envoy, His Excellency Michael Freeman, paid a visit to the governor in the state capital, Umuahia, recently.
According to an official statement from the Chief Press Secretary of the state, Kazie Uko, on the outcome of the meeting, various areas were specifically focused on for collaboration. These areas include agriculture, human capital development, digital economy, and support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
Recall that during his inaugural speech, Governor Otti had spotlighted agriculture transformation as a means of improving the state’s economy. He promised to create an environment that encouraged businesses to thrive and investments.
Meantime, the ambassador claimed to have observed the shared values of entrepreneurial spirit and determination between Abia state people and Israel. He stated that both cultures embody the ‘can-do’ spirit, and therefore never take ‘no’ for an answer. Thus, Freeman lauded this shared trait as a further incentive to work together for mutual goals.
Also, the he highlighted Israel’s expertise in agricultural technology and suggested potential for collaboration in areas such as cassava, rice, and cocoa production, with a focus on water conservation techniques.
He further commended Abia’s achievement of full-time electricity in Aba, highlighting its potential to facilitate advancements in the digital economy, technology, science, and agriculture.
In his response, the Abia governor enthusiastically welcomed the prospect of collaboration with Israel, noting Israel’s understanding of the modern economy and its in-depth research into areas relevant to Abia’s development priorities.
Furthermore, he outlined plans to establish an Abia Innovation Center to further propel the state’s commitment to innovation and digitalisation, while expressing confidence that Abia will experience significant transformation within a year.
