NEWS
GOV. ALEX OTTI SPEAKS TO ABIANS: GOV. OTTI APPROVES SME VILLAGE AND INNOVATION HUB IN ABA, FLAGS OFF RECONSTRUCTION OF ENYIMBA INTERNATIONAL HOTEL WITH RADISSON BLU MANAGEMENT DEAL
By @TheKELVINATOR, The Eyes Opener News | February 27, 2026
In a decisive move to stimulate small-scale enterprise and foster innovation, Governor Alex Chioma Otti revealed that approval has been granted for the establishment of an SME Village and Innovation Hub in Aba, designed to support small businesses, particularly those in the technology and phone repair value chain. The Governor confirmed that land has already been acquired for the ambitious project.
In addition, he announced the creation of an SME Hub in Aba, dedicated specifically to the sale and repair of computers and mobile phones, signaling the state government’s commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs and creating jobs.
Governor Otti also disclosed that the state government has successfully completed the acquisition of Afro Beverages Company, which was previously under the management of The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). He added that expressions of interest from potential investors have already been received, demonstrating strong private sector enthusiasm for the revival of the once-moribund company.
“It is not our preference to run these companies. Government’s role is to ensure they return to productivity under capable private sector management,” the Governor stated, underscoring his administration’s focus on creating an enabling environment for businesses rather than operating them directly.
Highlighting a major step in Aba’s hospitality and tourism sector, Governor Otti announced the flag-off of the reconstruction of Enyimba Hotel, which will now be managed by Radisson Blu.
He explained that the project, originally initiated over 50 years ago, will feature a seven-storey building with 120 rooms, alongside an additional structure housing 130 rooms, bringing the total to 250 rooms.
Clarifying ownership, the Governor emphasized that Enyimba Hotel remains the property of the Abia State Government, while Radisson Blu has been engaged as international managers for the reconstruction and operation, ensuring global standards of service and management.
Governor Otti further disclosed that the project will include an international convention centre, designed to attract conferences, events, and tourism to Aba, boosting the local economy and creating numerous employment opportunities.
Governor Otti made these disclosures during the February edition of his monthly media interaction with journalists, tagged “Governor Otti Speaks to Abians”, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to economic empowerment, infrastructure development, and public-private partnerships as tools for sustainable gro
wth in Abia State.