Abia on Path to Economic Renaissance, Experts Declare at ATTA Symposium in Lagos
By Clement Odum
Leading economists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders have expressed optimism about the economic future of Abia State at the 2026 symposium of the Abia Think Tank Association (ATTA), held in Ikeja, Lagos.
The event, themed “Renewed Nigeria’s Economic Resurgence: Is Abia Prepared?”, brought together prominent Abians from across Nigeria and the diaspora to deliberate on strategies for repositioning the state economically and politically.
Convener of the symposium and President of ATTA, Sam Ohuabunwa, said the forum was designed to foster honest conversations and generate actionable ideas for Abia’s development.
The symposium attracted high-profile participants, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba. Other dignitaries included Dr Uche Orji, Dr Uche Ogah, Johnson Chukwu, and Ndubuisi Ekekwe.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr.Uche Orji emphasized Abia’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s economic resurgence, noting that the state is already among the top five most industrialized in the country.
“Abia sits within a vital economic corridor in the Southeast and serves as a catchment area for over 60 million people. This gives it a natural advantage as a manufacturing hub,” he said.
He further stressed the need for professional leadership, urging voters to prioritize competence over politics. According to him, “The era of electing unprofessional politicians is over if sustainable development is to be achieved.”
Projecting into the future, Dr. Orji expressed confidence that Abia could rank among Nigeria’s top three industrial states within the next five years, citing improvements in infrastructure, energy supply, and security.
Representing the governor, Pastor Ajagba highlighted ongoing reforms under the Otti administration, stating that the government has made significant strides in infrastructure development, investment attraction, and governance.
He revealed that over 1,000 kilometers of roads have been constructed across nine local government areas since May 2023, alongside improvements in energy supply and public safety.
“Attracting over $150 million in investments reflects the credibility and transparency of this administration,” Ajagba said, adding that governance should remain in the hands of disciplined technocrats.
Panel discussions, moderated by Sonny Iroche, featured contributions from industry experts who addressed questions on economic strategy, investment climate, and sustainable growth.
In his closing remarks, Ohuabunwa noted that Abia is laying a solid foundation for long-term economic transformation.
“For economic renaissance to occur, key factors such as policy stability, infrastructure, and investment incentives must align. What we see today is that Abia is putting these building blocks in place,” he said.
He acknowledged that while Nigeria still faces economic challenges, the country is on a recovery path, urging stakeholders to focus on long-term gains rather than short-term difficulties.
The symposium concluded with a consensus among participants that Abia State is steadily transitioning from preparedness to active participation in Nigeria’s economic resurgence.
