An Umuahia-based technology expert, Dr Arinze Etie, has said that Abia State is emerging at the forefront of revenue innovation in Nigeria, driven by deliberate adoption of digital technology across key sectors.
Etie, who is the Group Managing Director of Bems Group, stated this during an interaction with Journalists in Umuahia, noting that the Dr Alex Otti led administration’s ongoing digital transformation is redefining governance, improving revenue generation and positioning Abia as a model for other States.
According to him, the introduction of technology-driven systems has simplified revenue processes, reduced human interference and enhanced efficiency in public finance management.
He cited the introduction of a consolidated demand notice as a major breakthrough in the State’s revenue architecture.
Etie, added that the system allows taxpayers to fulfil their obligations seamlessly without physical contact with revenue agents.
“Let me talk about revenue collection. Abia is on the forefront of revenue digitalisation.
“The consolidated demand notice, I can tell you, is the first of its kind in Nigeria where every revenue, be it to the State or the Local Government, is consolidated into one formula, into one document, and is electronically served.
“What happens is that you wake up in the morning and the system sends you a message that your consolidated demand notice with certain information is ready for payment and gives you a payment link. So from the comfort of your business, you fulfil your obligations,” he said.
Etie noted that the reform has eliminated the previous burden on business owners, who were often subjected to multiple and sometimes conflicting tax demands.
The technology expert attributed the transformation to the administration of Governor Otti, describing the Governor as “very innovative” and committed to using technology as a pathway to economic growth.
“When I say Abia is lucky, it means that for the first time in a long time, something different is happening. And this is directly tied to the leadership that we have now”, he said.
Etie further highlighted the impact of digital innovation in the sports sector, where he said automation has significantly improved revenue generation.
He pointed to the digitalisation of ticket sales for Enyimba FC and Abia Warriors as a practical example of how technology can boost internally generated revenue adding that the automation is witnessing an accelerated growth in revenue as against when it is manually done.
According to him, the improved revenue base is enabling government to reinvest in critical areas such as infrastructure, logistics and sports welfare, thereby strengthening the overall sports ecosystem.
Etie also emphasised the importance of data in sustaining revenue growth and informed decision-making.
He explained that digital platforms now provide government with real-time insights into attendance, fan engagement and operational efficiency, enabling better planning and targeted investments.
Etie noted that digital innovation is reshaping other sectors in the state, including transportation and education, noting the ongoing initiatives such as digital transport systems and smart schools as evidence of a transformation agenda.
He expressed optimism that with sustained implementation, digital systems would become fully integrated into governance and economic activities in Abia within the next few years.
