Okonjo-Iweala Hails Abia’s Economic Reforms, Urges Global Integration As State Marks 35 Years

“Abia Devoted 77% Of Budget To Capital Investment — More Than Any Other State”

UMUAHIA, Abia State – Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, has commended the Abia State Government for its efforts to diversify income sources, boost financial sustainability and deliver visible infrastructure, describing the progress as “delivery that is getting attention around the country and even further afield.”

The WTO DG spoke on Thursday, August 27, 2026 during the 35th Anniversary celebration of Abia State in a goodwill message delivered in Umuahia.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala noted that Abia’s current budgetary priorities show a clear shift toward development.

“The state’s efforts to diversify income sources and enhance financial sustainability are bearing fruit. And it is investing in the future. Again, according to budget, Abia devoted 77% of its spending to capital investment — more than any other state,” she said.

“I want to congratulate His Excellency, the governor and his team. In a short time, his government has upgraded infrastructure, repairing long neglected transport corridors, and demonstrating that it is possible for factories and homes in Nigeria to have a steadier supply of electricity. And they have done so whilst clearing inherited salary and pension arrears, and cutting the state’s debt burden.”

She, however, added a note of caution: “Mark you, excellency and dear audience. I’m not saying it is perfect. There’s still a lot of work to do. But what I see gives me hope that Abia can seize the opportunities that are emerging on the national and global stage.”

The former Finance Minister said Abia’s greatest unrealized potential lies in its manufacturing clusters, particularly in Aba, which she described as “the China of Africa” for the high-quality products manufactured there.

“We know that the state has incredible potential that remains unrealized. Aba international market has been dubbed the China of Africa, for the high quality products manufactured there for sale in Nigeria and abroad. Often under the labels of other countries,” she stated.

Citing Phillips Consulting, she said: “Aba’s leather cluster supplies 35% of West African demand, but that 0% of it is exported formally. We must change this.”

She blamed informality, limited market size and high trade costs for limiting scale-up, and urged the state to pursue outward connection.

“Abia’s future lies in outward connection, deeper integration into the economy of the Southeast, into the wider Nigeria market, into the ECOWAS region, across the African Continental Free Trade Area, and into the world beyond,” Okonjo-Iweala said.

“The disruptions in settling global trade today are also creating opportunities for places that have long remained on the margins of international networks. With reliable infrastructure, supportive policies, and a focus on attracting investment and enabling the build-up of a few high potential sectors, Abia can become a node in national, regional, and even global value chains. Maybe _Nakwa_ and _Aba-made_ should become a brand in its own right.”

She also called for Umuahia to be strengthened as both a light manufacturing and administrative center.

Concluding, the WTO DG offered prayers for the state as it marks 35 years.

“My warmest wish on this 35th anniversary is that the years ahead turn Abia’s obvious promise into jobs, prosperity, and dignity for every Abian.”