Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting and empowering manufacturers, entrepreneurs and small businesses to boost made-in-Abia products in the digital market.
The Governor who made the pledge at the AbaMade Trade Fair and Exhibition held at the Aba Sports Club and encouraged investors to engage with the entrepreneurs in Aba, said “there are boundless opportunities in Aba under this present administration.”
Gov. Otti represented by the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, applauded the resilience of the Aba people, their drive to excel and their commitment to upholding the highest standard of quality.
“You are the ambassadors of Abia’s industrious spirit, and we will continue to create an enabling environment for you to thrive.”
He further urged the Aba producers and manufacturers to ensure that the narratives of the Made in Aba products is not just of quality but also of accessibility and global recognition.
Earlier in her speech, The Special Adviser to the Governor on Digital Economy, Ms Chibuzor Elizabeth Chijioke, appreciated the governor for his support in promoting and projecting Made-in Aba products to the digital world. She said that the establishment of the Geometric Power plant in Aba, construction and reconstruction of roads in Aba among other things put together by the governor are making it easier for the manufacturers in Aba to succeed.
The SSA further charged the people to continue to patronise Made-in-Aba products , especially with the new technology where they can purchase their goods online seamlessly.
In their various speeches the convener of the AbaMade Trade fair Mr. Ikenna Chike-Obi, the Co-founder and the Chairman of the Occasion Dr. Chisom Ezeocha and the President of the Garment and Footwear Factory Owners Association of Nigeria (GAFFOAN), Mr Joseph Ikpe, said the aim of the Trade fair and exhibition is to establish a digital Ariaria Market in the internet space and to give manufacturers in Aba a global platform where they can own a digital shop and break the barrier of middle men which most times cause high price of goods.
Highlights of the event were the fashion shows, free registration of online shop by Naijalist, display of Erogas keke Napep (tricycle) and Erogas generator, clothes, shoes, perfumes, bags, among other all made in Aba Enyimba City.
