In a bold step toward repositioning its economy and boosting industrial capacity, the Abia State Government has unveiled plans to establish the Aba Export Lab, a strategic initiative designed to drive export-led development across the state.
The Export Lab, which is being developed in partnership with international organisations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), will serve as a springboard for Aba-based businesses to access global markets and meet international trade standards.
Announcing the initiative during a media briefing at Government House, Umuahia, the State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, said the Export Lab represents a major shift in the state’s economic development strategy. With Aba regarded as the industrial heartbeat of Abia, the programme aims to harness its manufacturing potential and position it for export competitiveness.
Kanu said the Export Lab will run as a six-month pilot programme, during which selected businesses will undergo intensive training and mentoring. These businesses will receive support in areas such as market identification, export readiness, product adaptation, pricing, packaging, logistics, regulatory compliance, and production management.
According to him, the initiative will begin with 20 or more carefully selected Aba-based enterprises, targeting verified African markets and aiming for international certifications.
“The goal is to prepare local businesses for global trade. This includes tailored export strategies, market trials, performance reviews, and initial export transactions,” he said.
Prince Kanu noted that a key selection criterion is the business’s physical presence in Aba, along with leadership commitment and an existing or potential export team. The state will prioritise products that offer comparative advantages and demonstrate market demand.
Among the focus areas is the promotion of Akwete cloth, a culturally significant textile unique to the region. “Akwete is not just a product; it is a symbol of our heritage and identity. It enjoys geographical indication status and will be a flagship product in our export push,” he stated.
The programme will also focus on footwear, especially for industrial use in sectors such as oil and gas and construction, as well as apparel tailored for the African diaspora. The aim is to help fashion businesses create culturally relevant and globally marketable designs.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Industry and SMEs, Mazi Mike Akpara, highlighted the need to rebuild Aba’s reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse.
“Years ago, Aba was fondly called the ‘Japan of Africa’ because of its vibrant production ecosystem. Unfortunately, many of our products are now rebranded as being made abroad, simply because our producers lack confidence or access to proper branding tools. This initiative is designed to change that,” Akpara said.
He stressed that the Export Lab would empower local entrepreneurs with the skills needed to package and promote their products internationally, thereby enhancing their competitiveness and market reach.
Further affirming the government's commitment, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Multilateral and Donor Agencies, Mr. Odinakachi Emeh, and the Principal Secretary and Chief Strategist to the State Government, Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzukwu, said the Export Lab is part of broader efforts to revive Aba’s economy and restore its status as a regional commercial hub.
They noted that the partnership with donor agencies will provide technical support, capacity development, and market linkages to ensure long-term sustainability. The initiative, they added, will not only boost export activities but also create employment and drive inclusive economic growth in Abia State.
With the Aba Export Lab set for commissioning in the coming weeks, stakeholders say it could mark a turning point in Abia’s industrial revival and re-establish the state as a key player in the African and global trade ecosystem.
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