Tech Revolution Unleashed: Aba's Thrilling Launch of ICT Centre of Studies Sparks Jubilation

In a significant stride towards technological development, the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, recently officiated the commissioning of the Aba ICT Centre of Studies/GSM Mall. The event, held at Danfodio-Etche Road by Kent Street, saw the convergence of prominent figures including Pastor Lazarus Muoka, General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen Revival Charismatic Movement, and Nze George Ezeibekwe, Chairman of the Abia GSM and Component Dealers Association, alongside market executives.

The ICT center, a brainchild of the Abia GSM and Component Dealers Association, stands as a testament to the power of Public-Private Partnership (PPP). The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Emmanuel Chima Oriaku, utilized the occasion to underscore the extensive infrastructural projects underway in the state, particularly in Aba, aimed at revitalizing its status as a premier commercial hub.

Governor Otti outlined imminent initiatives, including the four-lane dualization of the Owerrinta-Waterside-Umuoba Road and the awarding of the construction of Port Harcourt Road, Aba, to the renowned construction company, Julius Berger.

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Expressing gratitude for the collaborative effort, Otti commended the Abia GSM and Component Dealers Association for aligning with the administration's commitment to empowering Abia's youth through technological proficiency. He emphasized that skill acquisition, poverty alleviation, job creation, and capacity building are the cornerstones of his governance.

Chief Jerry Kalu, President of the Aba Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, praised the Association for erecting a facility that serves as a learning and training hub for youth, fostering knowledge and skills crucial for innovation and economic empowerment.

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The keynote address by Nze George Ezeibekwe, Chairman of the Abia GSM and Component Dealers Association, revealed that the ICT center is designed as a diploma-awarding institution with the capacity to train over 5,000 youths in various digital skills. He highlighted the project's significance, tracing its roots back to 2009, as an initiative to unite artisans and GSM dealers for professional efficiency and skill acquisition.

Ezeibekwe recounted the challenges faced, including the demolition of an initial project in 2014, but underscored their determination. The project gained momentum in 2019 through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Abia State government, establishing the ICT Centre on a PPP basis.

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Commending Governor Otti for his commitment to infrastructure development, Ezeibekwe called for the extension of rehabilitative roads to the ICT center for enhanced accessibility and appealed for a security post within the complex.

The ceremony drew the presence of notable dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, Commissioner for Trade Commerce and Industry Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, Commissioner for Digital Economy and SME, Mathew Ekwuribe, and other government officials and industry leaders. The move to the new market is scheduled for the first week of January 2023, signaling a promising start to the year for the Abia GSM and Component Dealers Association.