Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, joined Igbo leaders, statesmen and other stakeholders at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Igbo Day Lecture and Dinner held at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia.

The event, themed “The Igbo Charter and Development of Ala Igbo,” brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, clergy, business leaders and socio-cultural organisations to deliberate on strategies for the socio-economic development of the South-East.

Speaking at the gathering, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, outlined his administration’s economic direction, which he said includes moving the state beyond conventional trading towards manufacturing, digital commerce and technology-driven businesses.

Otti urged Ndigbo at home and in the diaspora to adapt to changes in the global business environment by embracing digital technology, encouraging innovation and strengthening local production.

According to the governor, greater use of technology and digital platforms would create opportunities for entrepreneurs to access wider markets while supporting sustainable wealth creation.

The event also featured a virtual keynote address by Professor Kingsley Moghalu, who discussed the Igbo Charter as a non-partisan framework for advancing development and unlocking the economic potential of the South-East.

Participants also discussed issues including entrepreneurship, technology, cultural preservation, investment, regional security and broader development across Ala Igbo.

Emetu’s participation at the gathering highlighted the Abia State Government’s involvement in discussions on regional development, economic transformation and the adoption of technology as part of efforts to prepare Abians and the wider Igbo community for emerging opportunities.