10/07/2025
Abia State took a leap toward inclusive and sustainable development on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, as Governor Alex Otti officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), a strategic alliance aimed at accelerating growth across key sectors in the state.
The MoU, signed during a high-level engagement, reflects a shared commitment between the Otti-led administration and the UNDP to unlock Abia's full economic potential. According to Governor Otti, the agreement represents a vital step toward “sustainable, inclusive development that prioritises the welfare of our people.”
Immediately following the MoU signing, Governor Otti commissioned the Aba Export Growth Lab located at Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, a bold initiative designed to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in areas such as standardisation, brand development, and global market entry.
The Lab targets high-impact sectors where Abia holds a competitive edge, including:
Footwear and leatherwork
Fashion and apparel
Akwete textiles and indigenous fabric production
Governor Otti made it clear that the Lab is not a revenue-generating venture for government but a capacity-building engine for Abia's entrepreneurs. He urged stakeholders to uphold strict quality standards, warning that products that fall short must not be promoted under the state’s banner.
“Excellence is non-negotiable. This Lab must stand as a quality gatekeeper for anything carrying the mark of Aba or Abia,” the Governor declared.
The event was graced by key partners including:
Ms. Elsie Attafuah, UNDP Nigeria Resident Representative
Mrs. Nkeiru Ezenwanne, NEXIM Bank
Mr. Francis Anatogu, Lead Consultant, Transaharan Consulting
Their technical and institutional support was applauded by Governor Otti, who noted that their involvement adds credibility and structure to the initiative.
The Aba Export Growth Lab is set to serve as a transformational hub for innovation, product refinement, and export-readiness giving local businesses the tools to meet international standards and access new markets.
