Abia State Governor Alex Otti has launched a N306 million technology-driven business grant initiative named NKATA, designed to support businesses across the state's 17 local government areas. The governor made this announcement while receiving the management team of the Abia State Technology Skills Acquisition Centre (ATSAC) and unveiling the project.
Inclusive Economic Empowerment
Governor Otti explained that the grant programme is deliberately structured to accommodate different categories of beneficiaries, ensuring inclusiveness and broadening access to economic opportunities. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and creating sustainable economic opportunities for youths. The N306 million intervention fund has already been earmarked for qualified beneficiaries who meet the programme's requirements.
"I want to congratulate everyone. The N306 million is available, but beneficiaries must meet all the necessary conditions," the governor stated. "In a few months' time, I want to hear that this intervention has yielded results, not just in monetary terms, but in job creation, poverty reduction and empowerment of our people."
Alignment with Administration's Vision
Governor Otti noted that the programme aligns with his administration's vision of building a productive, self-reliant and innovation-driven economy. The government became more convinced of the programme's potential after extensive reviews and consultations, especially regarding its capacity to positively impact youths and small businesses.
"The easiest way to spend money is to give it to people who consume it. But we will receive value when it is invested, and the investment must yield returns. That is our own way of intervening," he added.
Broader Economic Empowerment
The governor emphasized that the initiative is part of broader economic empowerment programmes designed to equip Abians with relevant skills and support systems to become self-reliant and employers of labour. He urged beneficiaries to utilize the opportunity responsibly by expanding their businesses, creating jobs, and contributing to Abia's economic growth.
Technology-Focused Approach
Earlier, ATSAC Director-General Peter Ukonu described the programme as a strategic intervention targeting business support, poverty reduction, and employment creation. Ukonu explained that NKATA adopts a technology-focused structure by deploying support through technology service providers instead of directly disbursing cash to beneficiaries.
"We are not giving cash to businesses directly. We are actually doing so through technology service providers," he said.
Digital Transformation Drive
According to Ukonu, the initiative brings together technology firms, software companies, hardware suppliers, internet service providers, and business mentors to drive digital transformation, automation, and artificial intelligence adoption among Abia businesses. "The goal is to help Abia businesses move from survival to growth, improve productivity, create jobs and build a new generation of technology-enabled enterprises," he stated.
He further disclosed that mentors, including professionals in the diaspora, would assist businesses in developing viable proposals and matching technological needs with practical solutions. Eligible beneficiaries must be residents of Abia State who actively operate businesses and pay taxes within the state.
