Abia Technology & Innovation Network Hosts Roundtable To Propel Tech Advancement

The Abia Technology & Innovation Network (ATIN) has taken a bold step toward strengthening the state’s technology ecosystem by hosting a high-level Ecosystem Roundtable Discussion at Sun Heaven Hotels, Umuahia.

Bringing together key stakeholders, including government officials, investors, academics, media professionals, and tech entrepreneurs, the event aimed to foster collaboration, identify challenges, and leverage 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 transformative for the state’s tech ecosystem. He highlighted that the initiative began with an Ecosystem Tour in Aba, where over 17 tech hubs, incubators, and makerspaces were identified as pivotal players in driving innovation.

Mr. Chinagozi further noted the Abia State Government’s strong commitment to the sector, underscored by investments in internet infrastructure, power supply, capacity building, and business process outsourcing (BPO). A significant milestone from the event was the government’s partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), resulting in a sealed deal for BPO expansion in Abia. This initiative is expected to create employment opportunities for young tech professionals in the state.

Another major highlight was the launch of the Abia Technology and Innovation Ecosystem Report (2014–2024), a comprehensive review of the state’s tech advancements over the past decade. Now accessible at www.abiatechnology.ng, the report is anticipated to serve as a key policy guide and attract investors to the sector.

The roundtable also featured the unveiling of the Export Growth Lab Initiative, a project developed in collaboration with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Designed to support Agri-Tech and manufacturing startups, this initiative aims to equip entrepreneurs with the resources needed to expand their businesses beyond Nigeria, positioning Abia as a leader in technology-driven exports.

With a strong focus on fostering a youth-driven economy, the discussion reinforced the importance of public-private sector collaboration in building a thriving, competitive, and globally relevant tech ecosystem in Abia.

ATIN reaffirmed its mission to foster innovation, support startups, and drive economic growth through technology. The roundtable marks a significant step in aligning Abia’s tech landscape with global trends and future opportunities.