Abia State is preparing to host two major international events before the end of the year, and the state government wants residents fully involved.
The Chief of Staff to the Abia State Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, announced that plans are complete for the US-Africa Trade, AFRICANDO 2026 and Investment Conference/Expo, alongside the Aba International Trade Fair and Exhibition. Both events will run between November and December in Umuahia and Aba.
A Platform for Local Business
Ajagba described the events as a chance to bring global attention to Abia while giving local entrepreneurs room to grow. Manufacturers, traders, professionals, innovators and emerging businesses will get the opportunity to showcase their products, build new partnerships, and connect with investors from Nigeria and abroad.
International Interest Is Already High
More than 500 international participants have registered so far. They include investors and business leaders from the United States, Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, and other parts of Africa.
That interest is already showing up locally. Hotels in Umuahia and Aba are reporting high demand for rooms around the event dates.
“Abia is rising, and the world is gathering,” Ajagba said, urging residents to prepare to make the most of the opportunity.
Appeal to Christian Communities
Ajagba called on Christian leaders to inform and mobilise their members ahead of the events. He specifically named business owners, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, professionals, youths and women in enterprise as groups who stand to benefit most.
Appeal to Muslim Communities
The Chief of Staff extended a similar appeal to Muslim leaders, pointing to the historic role Muslims have played in commerce, agriculture, transportation and manufacturing across Nigeria.
He asked Imams, Islamic scholars and leaders of Muslim organisations to help spread awareness within their communities. Entrepreneurs, traders, manufacturers, farmers, transporters, artisans, and young people in business were singled out as groups encouraged to take part.
