(DDM) – The Abia State House of Assembly has passed the Abia State Start-up Bill (H.A.B. 32), marking a significant milestone in youth empowerment and the growth of the state’s digital economy.
DDM gathered that the passage of the bill was announced by Speaker Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa during the International Youth Day celebration on Tuesday.
The bill is designed to provide an enabling environment for young tech innovators, foster job creation, and position Abia as one of Nigeria’s leading hubs for digital business.
In his remarks, Emeruwa congratulated the youth of Abia State, stressing that the legislation is a deliberate move to unlock their creativity, skills, and entrepreneurial potential.
“You are the future of our state, and we believe in your talent and energy. That is why we passed the Abia State Start-up Bill, a new law to help young tech innovators and create jobs,” the Speaker stated.
According to him, the law will not only stimulate local innovation but also attract investors and position Abia as a prime destination for technology-driven enterprises.
“This law will make Abia a top place for digital business in Nigeria, bring more investors, and grow our economy,” Emeruwa added.
The bill is currently awaiting assent from the state governor, Dr. Alex Otti, who is expected to sign it into law in the coming weeks.
Once signed, the legislation will provide a structured framework for funding, mentorship, and incubation of start-ups, especially those founded by young entrepreneurs.
The Speaker urged youths to prepare themselves to take full advantage of the opportunities that will follow the bill’s enactment.
“As your Speaker, I encourage you to use the opportunity, learn new skills, and lead the way in technology and innovation once it is signed into law by our dear governor,” he said.
The Abia State Start-up Bill is part of a broader strategy to integrate the state into Nigeria’s emerging digital economy, which is projected to contribute significantly to GDP growth in the coming decade.
Industry experts note that similar laws in Lagos and other Nigerian states have played key roles in attracting venture capital, developing innovation clusters, and creating thousands of tech jobs.
For Abia, the legislation is also seen as a way to reverse youth unemployment trends, retain local talent, and foster homegrown solutions to societal problems.
With the bill’s passage, Abia has signalled its readiness to join the league of states driving technological transformation in Nigeria.