💥🇺🇸🇳🇬 U.S Envoy Says Abia State Offers Tremendous Business Opportunities
- Our NationNigeria
- Sep 28
- 3 min read
ONN 28.09.2025 UMUAHIA, Nigeria
The United States is encouraging American companies to explore investment opportunities in Abia State, where officials say the climate is increasingly friendly for business and growth.
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, said during a recent visit that Abia has “tremendous potential” for trade and investment. He noted that areas such as manufacturing, agriculture, technology, and infrastructure could benefit from stronger U.S. business partnerships.
Mills met with Abia State Governor Alex Otti and other senior officials in Umuahia, the state capital. The discussions focused on how U.S. companies can partner with local businesses and government to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and strengthen the economy.
“Abia is open for business,” Mills said. “We believe American firms can play an important role in helping the state grow, while also benefiting from new markets and opportunities.”
Governor Otti welcomed the envoy’s comments, saying his administration has taken steps to remove barriers that discouraged investors in the past. He pointed to ongoing reforms in governance, tax systems, and security as measures aimed at creating a stable environment for investors.
“We are determined to build a state that supports business, both local and international,” Otti said. “The visit of the U.S. ambassador is a sign of confidence, and we are ready to work with American investors to unlock the potential of Abia.”
Abia, located in southeastern Nigeria, is known for its strong base in trade and small-scale industries. Aba, the state’s commercial hub, is often described as the “Japan of Africa” for its high level of innovation and locally made products.
Ambassador Mills noted that Aba’s leather and garment industries in particular could attract U.S. interest if infrastructure and supply chains are strengthened. He said American companies are increasingly looking toward Africa for growth, and Nigeria — especially states like Abia — is a natural destination.
“The U.S. government supports partnerships that bring jobs and economic progress,” he said. “We want to see sustainable investment that benefits both sides.”
Business leaders in Abia have long called for better access to international markets. They say collaboration with U.S. firms could open doors for exports and improve production standards.
Chika Nwosu, a local manufacturer in Aba, said the ambassador’s visit is encouraging. “If American investors partner with us, it will change the game,” Nwosu said. “We have the talent and creativity here, but we need technology, capital, and access to bigger markets.”
The U.S. has been strengthening economic ties with Nigeria in recent years. Trade between the two countries covers oil, agriculture, technology, and services. But officials say there is still room for much stronger cooperation, particularly at the state level.
Analysts believe Abia could attract investments in renewable energy, logistics, and digital services if the government continues reforms. Infrastructure remains a challenge, but officials say road and power projects are already underway.
The ambassador’s visit comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking more foreign investment to address unemployment and diversify away from oil revenue. For Abia, the attention from the U.S. could raise its profile among international investors.
Governor Otti said his administration will follow up on the discussions with concrete proposals for collaboration. He also urged local businesses to prepare themselves to meet international standards.
“This is not just about foreign companies coming in,” Otti said. “It is about building partnerships that lift our people out of poverty and create lasting prosperity.”
The U.S. embassy has pledged to continue working with Abia State through trade missions, exchange programs, and technical support. Officials say the goal is to connect American companies with reliable local partners.
As both sides prepare for next steps, observers say the real test will be how quickly talks turn into actual investments. Still, the message from the U.S. envoy was clear: Abia is on the map for American business.
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