
The Abia State Government has announced a new policy aimed at boosting the local economy by prioritizing the procurement of goods and services produced within the state.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday in Umuahia, the state capital, Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, said the new “Made-in-Abia” policy is part of the administration’s broader strategy to promote homegrown businesses and strengthen economic resilience.
According to Kanu, once fully implemented, the policy will ensure that all goods and services required by the government and public institutions within Abia are sourced locally, provided they are available in the state.
“This policy, when fully operational, would ensure that all goods and services obtainable in the state are not procured from outside,” he said.
He explained that the move is a proactive response to the challenges posed by the evolving national and global economies, as well as the inflationary pressures affecting Nigeria.
“As a forward-thinking government, the Abia State Government is deliberate about managing its local economy to boost the production of goods and services, which is crucial for the overall health of the state’s economy,” Kanu added.
The government believes the policy will not only stimulate local production and job creation but also reduce dependence on external markets and encourage innovation among local entrepreneurs.