The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has identified Abia State as a promising destination for American businesses, citing the state’s reforms and investment-friendly policies.
Speaking during a visit to Governor Alex Otti at his Nvosi country home in Isiala Ngwa South on Friday, Mills commended the state’s progress under Otti’s leadership and highlighted areas of potential collaboration.
“There are tremendous opportunities here for our businesses and commercial interests. Your administration’s focus on economic growth, youth empowerment, and transparency aligns with what U.S. investors need to see,” Mills said.
He praised Otti’s governance style as a strong example of effective leadership, especially in infrastructure development and security improvements across Abia and the South-East region.
The Ambassador noted that his visit aimed to deepen engagement and explore how the U.S and Abia could partner to achieve shared objectives.
In response, Governor Otti welcomed the Ambassador’s remarks, calling the visit a significant endorsement of his administration’s efforts.
“We see this visit as a vote of confidence. We’re not just looking for grants or aid—we want true partnerships. Abia is arguably Nigeria’s SME capital, and we believe there’s immense value in collaboration,” the governor said.
He outlined his administration’s reforms across healthcare, education, waste management, digital technology, and support for small businesses, reaffirming his commitment to attracting foreign investment through transparency and strategic infrastructure renewal.
Elected under the Labour Party in March 2023, Otti has consistently worked to position Abia as an economic hub.
His government has welcomed delegations from global agencies and development partners, reinforcing the state’s ambition to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on federal funding.
The United States remains one of Nigeria’s key economic partners, with bilateral trade valued at $11–13 billion in 2023, according to U.S government data.
