Abia State to Launch Aba Export Lab to Boost Industrial Growth and Global Trade Access
In a strategic move to rejuvenate Abia’s economy and reposition the state as an export-oriented powerhouse, Governor Alex Otti, OFR, will formally commission the Aba Export Lab on Monday, July 8, 2025. The groundbreaking initiative marks a new chapter in Abia State’s industrial transformation and global market integration.
The announcement was made by the Hon. Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu, who described the project as a cornerstone of Governor Otti’s Economic Rejuvenation Agenda, particularly under the Growth Exports Pillar. The Aba Export Lab is envisioned as a springboard to transform the Enyimba City into a world-class production, innovation, and export hub.
“The Lab will offer local producers the tools and support needed to access global markets, scale their operations, and become sustainable exporters,” Kanu stated. “This initiative will revive the spirit of enterprise and innovation that Aba is known for and reposition the state as the Japan of Africa.”
In its initial six-month pilot phase, 20 select Aba-based businesses will be enrolled in a comprehensive export readiness program. This program will include:
- Export readiness training
- Market strategy development
- Logistics and international compliance support
- Lead generation and access to export markets
- Performance evaluation and mentorship
The initiative is being delivered in partnership with UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) and UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization), highlighting the state’s commitment to global collaboration.
The businesses will be chosen based on strict criteria, including:
- Operational presence in Aba
- Demonstrated export readiness
- Strong leadership and vision
- Existence of a dedicated export team
The Aba Export Lab will place emphasis on products that showcase Aba’s unique craftsmanship and cultural identity, including:
- Akwete fabric – a globally protected cultural product of origin
- Industrial footwear – targeting oil, gas, and construction sectors
- Diaspora-targeted apparel – blending cultural design with global fashion standards
According to Mazi Mike Akpara, the Hon. Commissioner for Industry and SMEs, the initiative aims to equip local producers with advanced skills and confidence to label their goods “Made in Aba” with pride, while adhering to international best practices in packaging, pricing, production management, and certification.
The Governor’s SSA on Multilateral and Donor Agencies, Mr. Odinakachi Emeh, and the Principal Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer, Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, underscored the importance of multi-agency collaboration. They praised the administration’s long-term vision of fostering innovation, job creation, and export-led growth through public-private partnerships.
The Aba Export Lab is not just a facility—it is a movement to restore pride, empower SMEs, and open the doors of global commerce to local innovators. As the countdown to the launch begins, anticipation is high that this initiative will signal a bold industrial rebirth for both Aba and Abia State at large.
