The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has identified Abia State as a potential leader in Africa’s industrial transformation, praising the state’s strategic direction and commitment to economic development.
UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Elsie Attafuah, made this assertion at the unveiling and commissioning of the Aba Export Growth Lab, located at Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba — the commercial heart of the South East.
Attafuah stated that the South East has the capacity to become a regional hub for productivity, investment, and job creation through initiatives like the Export Growth Lab. She applauded Governor Alex Otti for his forward-thinking projects and assured of UNDP’s full support for the initiative.
Speaking at the event, Governor Otti emphasized that the facility aims to help local entrepreneurs meet international standards and compete in global markets.
“If your products can’t compete globally, then it’s not worth the effort,” the governor stated. “We’re not against imports, but our focus is to ensure Aba-made goods can cross borders and thrive in international markets.”
He urged the management of the project to prioritize quality, insisting that any substandard products must be rejected to protect the reputation of Abia’s goods.
In a goodwill message, Nkeiru Ezenwanne, representative of NEXIM Bank, reiterated the bank’s commitment to supporting efforts that enhance export diversification and drive inclusive economic growth. She pledged continued support for Abia’s job creation and industrial expansion agenda.
Earlier, Commissioner for Industry and SMEs, Mike Akpara, explained that the Aba Export Growth Lab was created to provide a gateway for local businesses to access global markets and scale their operations effectively.
