Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has drawn attention to locally manufactured products after proudly displaying a pair of shoes made in Aba, the commercial hub of the state.
The governor reportedly pulled off his shoe during an engagement and told those present, “This is Aba Made,” highlighting the quality of products manufactured by local artisans and businesses in Aba.
The shoe, which initially appeared to some observers to be foreign-made, carried the inscription “Aba Naija Made,” identifying it as a locally produced product.
Otti’s gesture was seen as part of his administration’s efforts to promote Made-in-Aba goods and encourage greater patronage of locally manufactured products.
Aba is widely recognised for its strong leather, garment, footwear and manufacturing clusters, with thousands of artisans and businesses involved in production.
By personally showcasing the locally made footwear, the governor emphasised the need for greater confidence in Nigerian-made products and support for local manufacturers.
The display also aligns with the state government’s broader push to reposition Abia from a largely trading-based economy toward increased production, manufacturing and export-oriented businesses.
The governor has repeatedly encouraged manufacturers and artisans in Aba to improve product quality, packaging and competitiveness, with the goal of making locally produced goods competitive in both Nigerian and international markets.
