South East breaking News
By Reporter
An Umuahia-based technology expert, Dr Pastra Etie, has said that the adoption of digital innovation in sports administration is already transforming revenue generation and development prospects in Abia.
Speaking on Wednesday during an interaction with journalists, in Umuahia, Etie described the initiative as a welcome development.
The expert, who is also the Group Managing Director of Bems Group, said that the government’s embrace of technology, particularly in sports, was not only enhancing governance but also creating new economic and social opportunities.
According to him, sports remain a unifying platform that cuts across political, social and generational divides, making investments in the sector highly impactful.
“Sports connect everybody, young and old, without political boundaries and any meaningful investment in that sector is a win for everyone, especially the government,” he said.
The expert noted that recent digital reforms by the state government, including the automation of ticket sales for its clubs;Enyimba FC and Abia Warriors, had significantly improved revenue inflow.
He explained that the introduction of digital platforms for ticketing and revenue collection had eliminated inefficiencies associated with manual systems, leading to substantial financial gains.
“Since the deployment of digital automation, revenue has increased by up to 100 per cent or more compared to the manual process, that translates to more funds for sports development,” he said.
Etie attributed the progress to the administration of Gov. Alex Otti, working through the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue and the Smart-AIRS Sports Automation Platform, built by his company.
He said that the improved revenue base provides government with the capacity to invest in critical areas such as stadium infrastructure, logistics, and player welfare.
According to him, better funding would enhance team performance, boost morale among players and management, and ultimately improve the state’s competitiveness in national leagues.
“At the heart of every successful team is motivation, because when you improve welfare, logistics and infrastructure, performance naturally improves,” he added.
Beyond revenue, Etie emphasised the central role of data in modern sports management, noting that digital platforms now provide accurate insights into fan engagement, attendance, and overall ecosystem performance.
“In today’s world, data is the fuel of development,without data, planning is like searching in the dark,” he said.
He explained that data generated through digital systems enables government to make informed decisions on infrastructure upgrades, stadium capacity, and overall fan experience.
The expert also highlighted the broader economic and social benefits of digital innovation in sports, particularly in youth engagement and grassroots talent development.
He noted that with technology, local competitions could now be streamed globally, giving young athletes visibility and opportunities that were previously unavailable.
“Technology has become the light that illuminates hidden talents.
“A competition in a local school in Abia can now be watched anywhere in the world, and that exposure can change lives,” Etie said.
He further said that digital platforms simplify club administration by enabling online ticket purchases, seat reservations, and event promotions, thereby improving fan experience and increasing participation.
Etie commended the state government for sustaining its investment in digital systems and expanding their application across sectors, including education, transportation and revenue collection.
He described Abia as being on a transformative path, driven by innovation and forward-thinking leadership.
“For the first time in a long while, Abia is experiencing a shift.
“Technology is becoming the roadmap for development, and the state is well positioned to leverage it for long-term growth,” he said.
Etie acknowledged that the occurrence of initial resistance to digital adoption among residents, and added that increased awareness and user experience were gradually driving acceptance.
“The challenge is not the technology itself, but getting people to trust and use it, once they do, the benefits become obvious,” he said.
Etie expressed optimism that with sustained efforts, digital systems would become fully integrated into governance and economic activities in the state within the next few years.
