By Steve Oko
The Special Assistant to the Abia State Governor on Digital Economy, Chibuzor Elizabeth Chijioke, has won the 2026 Prize for Public Service at The Future Awards Africa, in recognition of her contributions to expanding technology-driven economic opportunities in the state.
The award is part of a newly introduced state-level category aimed at recognising young Nigerians driving measurable impact and building sustainable ecosystems in their communities.
Chijioke’s recognition comes as the Abia State Government intensifies efforts to translate its technology and innovation policies into practical opportunities for young people, entrepreneurs and businesses.
The Future Awards Africa, which has recognised young innovators and change-makers for nearly two decades, expanded its recognition framework this year to include state-level categories in Abia, Rivers, Oyo and Kano states.
The new category focuses on grassroots impact and young leaders contributing to the development of local ecosystems.
Reacting to the honour, Chijioke described the award as renewed motivation to deepen efforts to create more opportunities for young people and businesses in Abia.
“This is not a finish line,” she said. “It is renewed motivation to ensure that the opportunities being created reach even more people.”
A key part of her assignment has been facilitating the implementation of the recently passed Abia Startup Law, with emphasis on ensuring that the legislation delivers tangible benefits beyond the policy framework.
As part of the effort, she facilitated the Abia Startup Roundtable, which brought together startup founders, investors, policymakers and development organisations to discuss funding gaps, strategic partnerships and practical approaches to implementing the law.
Chijioke said the state’s digital economy agenda was designed to connect existing local strengths with wider markets and emerging opportunities.
“For us, the digital economy is about the artisan who should be able to reach customers beyond Abia, the young person who needs access to relevant skills, and the founder who deserves an environment where an idea can become a sustainable business,” she said.
“It is about connecting Abia’s existing strengths to new markets and opportunities.”
The governor’s aide also urged young Nigerians to take a more active interest in governance and public institutions rather than remaining on the sidelines.
“Young people must not see government only as something distant from them,” she said.
“We must be willing to enter the room, understand how institutions work, contribute credible ideas and remain long enough to help build better systems.”
Chijioke stressed that meaningful achievements in public service were rarely the efforts of one individual, acknowledging the contributions of ecosystem partners and public servants supporting Abia’s digital economy drive.
The award further highlights Abia’s growing profile as an emerging technology and innovation hub, following recent policy initiatives aimed at supporting startups, digital skills development and technology-enabled businesses in the state.
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