We’re Not Competing With Lagos, We’re Building an Alternative – Otti

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has said the state is not seeking to compete with Lagos as a mega city, but rather to position itself as a credible alternative destination for investment and business growth in Nigeria.

Speaking on Tuesday at the Invest Lagos 3.0 forum, Otti argued that Nigeria’s economic development must not remain overly concentrated in Lagos, stressing the need for other states to build sustainable economies capable of sharing the country’s commercial burden.

He commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for providing a platform that allows subnational governments to present their investment opportunities, describing the initiative as a rare act of collaboration.

“It takes a lot of selflessness to invite other states to take advantage of a platform to market themselves, and I assure you I will not demarket you as I market myself,” Otti said.

While acknowledging Lagos’ dominant position as Nigeria’s economic hub, the Abia governor noted that the city’s rapid growth has also placed significant pressure on its infrastructure and population.

“Lagos is a mega city. If you ask me, I would say it is overpopulated, and that is why it is good for other states to begin to grow, so that they can take what Lagos cannot take,” he said. “We can’t be a mega city in the next 10 or 15 years, but there are things we can take off Lagos.”

Otti used the platform to promote Abia State’s ongoing reforms, particularly in Aba, the state’s commercial nerve centre, where he said steady electricity supply has been restored to support business activity.

He also highlighted the transformation of Ariaria International Market, which now operates as a 24-hour trading hub, a development he described as a major boost to commerce and productivity.

According to him, his administration is prioritising infrastructure development, reliable power supply and investor-friendly policies to create a more enabling environment for businesses.

Otti added that strengthening multiple state economies across Nigeria would help reduce pressure on Lagos while driving more balanced and inclusive national growth.