FIC Report (Abia State) – The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing National Brand Development, promoting Made-in-Nigeria products and strengthening local industries as it received a delegation from the National Brand Development and Made-in-Nigeria Project at the Government House, Umuahia.
The delegation, led by the Executive Director of the project, Hon. Nwabueze George, and the Chairman of its Technical Committee, Alhaji Oladijoye Musiliu, paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu.
Speaking during the meeting, the Deputy Governor said the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti remains committed to policies that promote local production, entrepreneurship and industrialisation.
He noted that the government’s vision is to build a resilient economy driven by innovation, enterprise and manufacturing, creating sustainable opportunities for businesses and residents.
The Commissioner for Industry and SMEs, Mazi Michael Enyinnaya Akpara, welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the state’s readiness to partner with the National Brand Development and Made-in-Nigeria Project to expand opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He described Abia as a leading centre for entrepreneurship, innovation and manufacturing, expressing confidence that the collaboration would enhance the visibility, competitiveness and market access of products made in the state.
Earlier, the Executive Director of the project, Hon. Nwabueze George, stressed the importance of promoting Nigerian-made goods and developing strong national brands capable of competing in global markets. He explained that the initiative is designed to boost the visibility of locally produced goods, encourage patronage of indigenous products and create new market opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
George also announced that the National Brand Development and Made-in-Nigeria Project will hold from September 22 to 26, 2026, bringing together stakeholders from across the country to showcase indigenous products, foster partnerships and advance the Made-in-Nigeria campaign.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman of the project’s Technical Committee, Alhaji Oladijoye Musiliu, commended Governor Alex Chioma Otti for what he described as the administration’s remarkable strides in rebuilding Abia State. He called for stronger collaboration among governments, manufacturers, SMEs and investors to accelerate industrial growth and achieve sustainable national development.
Discussions at the meeting centred on strategies for promoting local content, strengthening SMEs, attracting investment and positioning Nigerian products for greater acceptance in both domestic and international markets.
Those present at the meeting included the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry and SMEs, Dr. Okey Ihemanma; the Special Adviser on SMEs, Lady Chinwe Kanu; the Abia State Coordinator of the National Brand Development and Made-in-Nigeria Project, Mrs. Nwosu Chinyere; and the Ministry’s Legal Adviser, Barr. Forgiveness Madukairo.
Amah Ijeoma
FIC Correspondent office of the Deputy Governor
26-06-2026
