The Enyimba City, Aba, in the southeastern part of Abia State, Nigeria, is set to host the world at the “Aba Made Trade Fair and Exhibition” holding at Aba Sports Club, Aba, on April 19, 2024.
One of the organisers, Professor Ndubuisi Ekekwe, disclosed this privately to Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) over the weekend.
According to Professor Ekekwe, the aim of the trade fair and exhibition is to showcase to the world the creativity, and ingenuity of the people of Aba.
He assured the visitors will be thrilled with products made by Aba people, ranging from clothes, to bags, to footwears and other household items.
Taking to his social media handle, Ekekwe posted:
“The Enyimba City, Aba, will host the world on April 19, 2024, showing the creativity, the ingenuity, and the maker spirit of Aba.
“Yes, you’re cordially invited to the Aba Made Trade Fair and Exhibition at Aba Sports Club.
“Come and see products created by builders and makers in Aba.
“More so, if you are a maker, reach out to the team (the contacts on the billboard), for a spot to exhibit; it is 100% free.”
Who is expected at Aba Made Trade Fair and Exhibition?
According to Ekekwe, the dignitaries expected at the event include the state governor, Dr Alex Otti, and other well-meaning Igbo businessmen.
He stated: “We’re expecting His Excellency, Dr Alex Otti, to grace this event because his vision of a Greater Abia will go through empowering innovators and builders in Abia.
“Abia is a home of innovation with a slogan of “prosperity through enterprise”.
“We offer many benefits to investors including a top-grade human capital.”
Other dignitaries include the former governor of Anambra State and the Labour (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, amongst others.
Ekekwe advised anyone who is organizing a productive event in Abia State to come forward for “some shouts”.
“Let us see how to support you as you bring people together, to advance the mission of making Abia State the #1 in Nigeria on opportunity and human welfare,” he said.
About Ndubuisi Ekekwe
Ndubuisi Ekekwe is a Professor, Inventor and Entrepreneur.
He is also the Chairman of Tekedia Capital, Aba.
He had been appointed a Harvard Business Review writer since 2009.
Ekekwe is a Member of Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council.
He is also the co-Chairman of Abia State Economic Transformation Council
About Aba
Aba, located in southeastern Nigeria, serves as the commercial center of Abia State.
Geography and History
Aba lies along the west bank of the Aba River and is situated at the intersection of roads leading to cities such as Port Harcourt, Owerri, Umuahia, Ikot Ekpene, and Ikot-Abasi.
The city was established by the Ngwa clan of the Igbo people as a bustling market town.
In 1901, the British colonial administration placed a military post in Aba.
Administrative Divisions
Upon the creation of Abia State in 1991, the old Aba township was divided into two local government areas.
They are Aba South, the main city center of Aba and Abia State, located on the Aba River and Aba North, another local government area within the city.
Population and Craftsmanship
Aba is renowned for its skilled craftsmen.
As of 2016, the estimated population of Aba was 2,534,265, making it the largest city in southeastern Nigeria.
Industrial and Commercial Significance
Aba serves as a major urban settlement and commercial center in its region.
It is surrounded by small villages and towns. The indigenous people of Aba are the Ngwa.
Economic Activities
Aba became a collection point for agricultural products following the construction of a British-made railway connecting it to Port Harcourt.
The city’s industrial and commercial activities contribute significantly to the region’s economy.
In summary, Aba is a dynamic city with a rich history, bustling markets, and a thriving artisan community.
[Credit: Wikipedia]