Abia State has passed a new law to establish itself as a center for technology and innovation.

The government also plans to launch a fleet of electric buses to advance cleaner urban transportation.

Governor Alex Otti assented to the Abia State Startup Law 2025, which adapts the Nigerian Startup Act of 2022 for implementation at the state level.

The law creates a legal and regulatory framework to support technology-driven businesses in Abia State, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.

Commissioner for Information Okey Kanu shared the development on Monday while briefing journalists in Umuahia after a State Executive Council meeting. He explained that the law aims to foster innovation, attract investment, and develop digital talent as the state works to diversify its economy beyond traditional sectors.

“The law applies to companies with major operations in Abia and startups duly recognised and labelled under the national Act,” Kanu said.

In addition to the startup initiative, the Abia State government is advancing plans for a state-owned electric mass transit system under the Abia Transport Transformation Project.

Kanu stated that the first phase will see around 100 electric buses deployed, with an initial 20 vehicles delivered in November and another 20 expected early next year.

According to the government, each bus—custom-built for Abia State—can seat 40 passengers and travel up to 400 kilometres on a single charge.

“They are equipped with modern safety and comfort features, including cameras, charging ports, disability access, emergency exits and fire extinguishers,” the official stated.

If fully rolled out, the project would make Abia one of the first Nigerian states to deploy electric buses for public transport, highlighting a growing state-level interest in cleaner energy solutions amid rising fuel costs and environmental concerns.