Abia Assembly Passes Start-Up Bill to Power Youth Innovation
The Abia State House of Assembly has taken a bold step toward driving youth empowerment and digital transformation by passing the Abia State Start-up Bill (H.A.B. 32). The landmark legislation aims to create jobs, attract investors, and position Abia as a new hub for Nigeria’s digital economy.
Speaker of the House, Emmanuel Emeruwa, announced the bill’s passage during the 2025 International Youth Day celebration, describing it as a major milestone in unlocking opportunities for young innovators and entrepreneurs across the state.
“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,” Emeruwa said.
The bill, currently awaiting the assent of Governor Alex Otti, is designed to establish a supportive framework for start-ups — from funding and mentorship to regulatory incentives that make it easier for innovation to thrive.
With Nigeria’s tech ecosystem booming across cities like Lagos and Abuja, Abia’s move signals a strong ambition to join the map of innovation-friendly states. The Start-up Bill is expected to attract investors, empower tech founders with access to resources and capital, and strengthen collaboration between the government, private sector, and educational institutions.
Emeruwa noted that this initiative aligns with the Assembly’s broader vision of building a modern and opportunity-rich Abia where young people can thrive in a fast-evolving digital landscape. “This law will make Abia a top place for digital business in Nigeria, bring more investors, and grow our economy,” he added.
Once signed into law, the bill will set the stage for a coordinated ecosystem where tech talent, investors, and innovators can work together to build sustainable digital ventures. The Speaker also encouraged young people to prepare themselves to take advantage of the opportunities the new law will unlock.
“I encourage you to use this opportunity, learn new skills, and lead the way in technology and innovation once it is signed into law,” Emeruwa advised.
Across Nigeria, states are beginning to localise the Nigeria Start-up Act, adapting it to their unique needs. With this move, Abia joins the ranks of states using tech legislation to empower youth, diversify their economies, and attract investment into their growing innovation scenes.
As the bill awaits final approval, optimism runs high that Abia’s tech-savvy youth will soon have the policy support they need to turn ideas into thriving ventures.