NEWS
Abia State Govt to Launch One-Stop Export Growth Lab at Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Targets February Opening to Boost SMEs, Manufacturing and Exports in Aba
The Abia State Government has announced that the plan to establish a one-stop-shop at the Export Growth Lab facility located within the premises of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, is progressing steadily, with the project now over 80% completed and expected to be ready for opening by the end of February.
The disclosure was made by the honourable Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
According to the Commissioner, the strategic facility is designed to eliminate the bureaucratic obstacles that have historically slowed down small businesses, manufacturers, and exporters, while strengthening Aba’s position as a competitive commercial and industrial hub in Nigeria.
“The establishment of a one-stop shop and other Export Growth Lab located within the premises of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba, is nearing completion and may be opened by the end of February.
“These facilities aim at facilitating the ease of doing business among SMEs in Aba and environs. When fully operational, the Export Growth Lab will assist in activities like business registration and NAFDAC approval, among others,” the Commissioner explained.
Prince Kanu emphasized that the Export Growth Lab will serve as a centralized platform where entrepreneurs and exporters can access critical regulatory, business development, and compliance services under one roof, thereby reducing delays, cutting costs, and improving operational efficiency.
He further described the project as a key component of the present administration’s deliberate policy thrust to create an enabling environment for enterprise growth, job creation, and industrial expansion across Abia State.
The Commissioner noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Alex Otti’s broader economic development agenda, which prioritizes private sector participation, value addition, and the transformation of Aba into a globally recognized center for production and exports.
With the facility close to completion, expectations are high that the Export Growth Lab will significantly enhance the capacity of local businesses to formalize operations, meet regulatory standards, and access wider markets, ultimately driving sustainable economic growth and prosperity
in Abia State.