REPORTER: PEACE AGBO
The Abia State Government is to establish an SME Village and Innovation Hub in Aba, to improve State’s economic growth the state
Speaking to newsmen at Government House Umuahia after week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, said the proposed SME Village, when completed would accommodate computer dealers, mobile phone sellers and repair technicians.
According to him a one-stop Export Growth Lab and trade support facility, located within the premises of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, is nearing completion and is expected to be opened before the end of this month.
Prince Kanu explained that the initiative was designed to remove bureaucratic bottlenecks faced by small businesses, manufacturers and exporters, thereby positioning Aba as a more competitive commercial hub
He described the projects as part of the present administration’s deliberate policy thrust to create an enabling environment for enterprise growth, job creation and industrial expansion across the State.
The Commissioner also announced that the Green Shuttle Mass Transit Scheme will fully transition to an Electronic Ticketing System at the conclusion of its ongoing pilot phase, which currently offers free transportation services.
Prince Kanu described the digital ticketing system as a major shift from cash-based public transport operations which will eliminate cash handling and the use of conductors.
Contributing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Dr Obioma Nwogbo, explained that public sensitization is ongoing to prepare residents for the digital ticketing system assuring that assistance will be provided for the elderly and non-digitally savvy.
Also, the Commissioner for Health Prof Enoch Uche, urged parents to ensure children aged 9 months to 14 years receive the ongoing Measles and Rubella Vaccine, describing it as safe and life-saving.
