Abamade Trade Fair: We’re showcasing power of Aba — Gov. Otti

The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has extolled the just-concluded Abamade Trade Fair and Exhibition, saying the project showcased the power of made in Aba products to the world.

Governor Otti made the remarks during a speech presented on his behalf by the State Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu.

Speaking, Dr.  Ukaegbu noted that for decades, Aba has been the heartbeat of indigenous manufacturing in Nigeria.

According to him, ‘Aba is a hub of creativity and innovation, bustling with the hum of machinery, artisans at work, and the spirit of entrepreneurship that knows no bounds’.

He regretted, however, that despite this rich heritage, there has been a gap between the brilliance of manufacturers and their potential reach.

“This is the gap that Abamade seeks to bridge,” he declared.

To achieve this feat, stressed, requires investment in infrastructure, education, and training.

“It will require the creation of an enabling environment that fosters entrepreneurship and rewards innovation.

“And it will require the collective effort and commitment of all stakeholders to ensure that Aba realizes its full potential,” he added.

Abia State Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu

What Governor Otti said about Abamade Trade Fair

Read the statement in full below:

“Fellow Abians, distinguished guests, and captains of industry,

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I stand before you today on behalf of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti OFR, the Executive Governor of Abia State, to address this esteemed gathering.

We gather today at a momentous occasion – the inaugural Abamade Trade Fair and Exhibition. This event isn’t merely a showcase; it’s a celebration – a celebration of the indomitable spirit of Aba, a city synonymous with innovation, craftsmanship, and unwavering entrepreneurial zeal; and the ingenuity, authenticity, and resilience of Aba-made products.

For decades, Aba, often referred to as the “Japan of Africa”, has been the beating heart of indigenous manufacturing in Nigeria.

A hub of creativity and innovation, its bustling streets are alive with the hum of machinery, the rhythm of artisans at work, and the spirit of entrepreneurship that knows no bounds.

From the dexterity of our tailors to the ingenuity of our metalworkers, Aba has produced goods that have not only graced our homes but have also been exported across the continent and beyond.

From humble beginnings…

The quality, the legitimacy, the very essence of “Abamade” has earned a reputation that precedes itself.

From humble beginnings, Aba has emerged as a powerhouse of manufacturing, producing goods that rival the best in the world.

However, despite this rich heritage, there has been a gap between the brilliance of our manufacturers and the reach they deserve.

This is the gap that Abamade seeks to bridge.

Today, we are not just showcasing products; we are showcasing potential.

We are showcasing the power of Aba to not only compete but to excel in the global marketplace.

Abamade is more than a trade fair; it’s a platform. A platform that leverages technology to empower our commerce.

The Abamade platform serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of our artisans and entrepreneurs to excellence.

It is a showcase of the countless hours of dedication, the relentless pursuit of perfection, and the boundless creativity that defines the Aba spirit.

Here, under one roof, we witness the convergence of tradition and modernity, as age-old techniques meet cutting-edge technology to produce goods of unparalleled quality and craftsmanship.

What Government can do

We are determined to ensure that the narrative surrounding Abamade products is not just one of quality and ingenuity, but also one of accessibility and global recognition.

This transformation will not happen overnight.

But with each stitch sewn, each mold cast, and each business deal struck at this very fair, we are laying the foundation for a future where “Abamade” is synonymous with excellence.

A future where our manufacturers and artisans, who have toiled in the shadows with their talents unrecognized and their contributions undervalued, not only survive but thrive.

It is time to change that narrative.

Through initiatives like Abamade, we aim to bridge the gap between technology and commerce, unleashing a wave of innovation that will transform the economic landscape of Abia State.

We envision a future where Aba-made products are not only sought after within our borders but are coveted on the global stage.

We envision a future where every entrepreneur has access to the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive.

And we envision a future where the spirit of creativity and innovation that defines Aba is celebrated and cherished by all.

But achieving this vision will require more than just words; it will require action. It will require investment in infrastructure, education, and training.

It will require the creation of an enabling environment that fosters entrepreneurship and rewards innovation.

And it will require the collective effort and commitment of all stakeholders to ensure that Aba realizes its full potential.

The administration of His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Otti OFR, is firmly committed to supporting and empowering our manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses.

We understand that driving industrialization and boosting made-in-Abia products is key to catalyzing sustainable economic growth, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods across our state.

The target and goal of Abamade

To our manufacturers here today, I applaud your resilience, your drive to excel, and your commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality.

You are the ambassadors of Abia’s industrious spirit, and we will continue to create an enabling environment for you to thrive.

To our guests and potential investors, what you will witness here is a vibrant tapestry of skill, innovation, and commercial potential.

I encourage you to explore the diverse range of products, engage with our entrepreneurs, and tap into the boundless opportunities that Abia State has to offer.

Let this Abamade Trade Fair and Exhibition be a testament to the unwavering Abia spirit.

Let it be a launchpad for our collective journey towards economic prosperity.

Let it be a beacon of hope, not just for Aba, but for all of Nigeria, demonstrating the power of innovation and creativity to drive progress.

I encourage all of you, visitors and exhibitors alike, to embrace the spirit of Abamade.

Seek out the stories behind the products. Be inspired by the dedication and talent on display.

Let us use this platform to forge new partnerships, explore new markets, and propel Aba – and Abia – to even greater heights.

Let us recommit ourselves to the principles that have guided us thus far – integrity, excellence, and a relentless pursuit of progress.

Let us seize this moment as an opportunity to build a brighter future for generations to come.

And let us never forget the words of Nelson Mandela, who said, “It always seems impossible until it is done.”

Together, let us make Abamade a resounding success!

Thank you.”

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