In what could be described as a strong economic testimonial, Chief Kingsley Nwaobilor, a seasoned financial expert and the CEO of DreamSpring Microfinance Institution, has declared that Aba, the commercial heartbeat of Abia State, is experiencing a massive economic turnaround under Governor Alex Otti.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with Emenike Iroegbu on the popular AF Television programme FOCAL POINT, Nwaobilor praised the Otti-led administration for launching a development wave that has not only restored confidence in the local economy but also set the pace for sustainable growth in small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).
According to Nwaobilor, what is happening in Aba today is nothing short of an economic rebirth. He stated that the once-neglected business hubs in areas like Port Harcourt Road, Palm Road, and others which were long forgotten due to failed infrastructure have now become active economic zones, thanks to massive road rehabilitation and environmental sanitation championed by the current administration.
“We’re seeing new SMEs springing up in locations that used to be dead. Aba people are happy,” Nwaobilor declared.
He revealed that his institution, which primarily supports small business owners, has experienced a surge in loan applications as more entrepreneurs return to the marketplace. More notably, he pointed out that the rate of loan defaults has significantly reduced—an indicator that the operating environment has become more enabling and productive for business.
“People now take loans and pay back without stress. That tells you something is working,” he added.
Nwaobilor also gave special mention to the improved security landscape in Aba, attributing the change to the introduction of streetlights and better law enforcement coordination.
Recalling personal experiences, he stated:
“In my area around Rivers Layout, by 8pm you won’t see a soul outside before now. But today, people are out till past 10pm because everywhere is lit. The fear is gone.”
This, according to him, has led to extended business hours, higher customer engagement, and improved confidence for night-time commercial activity—factors that collectively bolster the city’s economic pulse.
While commending the governor for his achievements so far, Nwaobilor urged him to focus on improving Aba’s transport system. He noted that although roads have been fixed, the absence of a structured and efficient public transportation framework continues to hinder some aspects of business logistics.
“Transportation is the next key step. A coordinated transport system will not only create jobs but also boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR),” he advised.
Nwaobilor also applauded Governor Otti for his efforts in cleaning up Aba, noting that the cleanliness campaign has elevated the city’s appeal to investors and businesses.
In his closing remarks, the DreamSpring Microfinance boss declared that Aba is finally back on track and that “when you fix Aba, you fix Abia.” According to him, the pace of economic resurgence in Aba is bound to double in the coming months if the current policies and infrastructural momentum are sustained.
This development adds to the growing chorus of endorsements for Governor Alex Otti’s administration, with many viewing Aba as a model for urban renewal and economic restoration in the South-East region and beyond.
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