Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has joined national and international stakeholders at the official launch of the Manufacturing Technology (Manu-Tech) University Innovation Pod (UniPod) at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU).
The event, held on Monday, marks another step in efforts to strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship and industrial development in the state and the wider region.
High-Profile Launch of Manu-Tech UniPod
The launch brought together key figures including Vice President Kashim Shettima (represented by Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa), TETFund Executive Secretary, Architect Sonny Echono, UNDP Africa Director, Mrs. Ahunna Eziakonwa, UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, and MOUAU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. (Mrs) Ursula Ngozi Akanwa.
Governor Otti described the Manu-Tech UniPod as a strategic platform under the National Innovation and Digital Transformation Partnership Programme (NIDTPP). The initiative is a collaboration between the Federal Government, TETFund and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Partnership Between FG, TETFund and UNDP
The UniPod is designed to help universities convert research and talent into viable enterprises that can compete globally. It is expected to foster innovation, support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), attract investment and create sustainable jobs.
Abia State’s participation is anchored on the potential of MOUAU and the manufacturing strength of Aba, the state’s commercial hub. The governor noted that the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to position Abia as a centre for industrial competitiveness and innovation.
Governor Otti said the UniPod would drive entrepreneurship and enterprise development within the university system. He expressed optimism that the facility would help deepen partnerships with UNDP and other development partners.
He highlighted other ongoing interventions in the state, including the Jubilee Fellows Programme, Aba Export Growth Lab, energy investments and community innovation centres. These initiatives, he said, are aimed at broadening opportunities for Abians.
Abia’s Strategic Role in the Initiative
The governor commended the Federal Government, TETFund, UNDP, MOUAU and all partners for their collaboration. He stressed the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that it opens access to a market of over 1.4 billion people.
“Our task is clear: innovate, produce and compete globally,” he said.
The launch of the Manu-Tech UniPod is seen as part of broader efforts to reposition Nigerian universities as engines of economic transformation and job creation.
