Abia Govt, Amena Tech Signs MoU to Digitally Standardise and Classify Hospitality Facilities

Abia Govt, Amena Tech Signs MoU to Digitally Standardise and Classify Hospitality Facilities

The Abia State Government has entered into a partnership with AMENA Tourism and Hospitality Innovation Technology to roll out a standardized grading and rating system for hospitality establishments across the state, in a move aimed at strengthening tourism, improving service delivery, and attracting investment.

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the state government and AMENA Tourism and Hospitality Innovation Technology, Implemented through the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, the initiative will place hotels, guest houses, and related facilities under clearly defined and internationally recognized standards, giving both local and foreign visitors greater confidence when making accommodation choices.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Dr. Mathew Ekwuribe, said the programme is driven by the need to promote standards, build trust, and stimulate economic growth. He stressed that all hospitality businesses in the state must be properly registered and visible within the new system.

According to Dr. Ekwuribe, the grading framework will boost travellers’ confidence, elevate accommodation quality, and foster healthy competition among operators. He added that the initiative is expected to generate employment opportunities and spur growth in related sectors, including transportation, catering, crafts, and cultural tourism.

The commissioner also noted that the system would enhance security and regulatory oversight by creating a verified database of approved hospitality facilities.

This, he said, would help reduce risks to visitors and support the administration of Governor Alex Otti in repositioning Abia as a viable destination for business and leisure tourism.

In his remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN, described the MoU as consistent with Governor Otti’s agenda of reviving and strengthening all sectors of the state’s economy.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of AMENA Tourism and Hospitality Innovation Technology, Mr. Edosa Eghobamien, praised the governor for what he described as impactful and people-focused projects across the state, which he said reflect strong leadership and commitment to development.
Mr. Eghobamien disclosed that the digital application for the grading system was fully developed locally by his team, highlighting the transparency and professionalism of the process. He commended the commissioner for his digital competence and commitment to ensuring the platform meets security and industry standards.

He thanked the Abia State Government and the ministry for the opportunity to deliver the project, noting that AMENA intends to establish a long-term presence in the state.

He added that a detailed final report would be submitted to the governor at the end of the exercise.
Under the terms of the MoU, the grading and rating programme is expected to run for a period of five months.