The Abia State Government has assured participants of the 2024 Aba International Trade Fair of robust security measures and seamless event organisation to guarantee a safe and successful experience.
The fair is scheduled to hold from November 28 to December 7, 2024.
Speaking on the preparations, the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, revealed that over 10,000 business firms from across the globe are expected to showcase their products and innovations, shop for business and household needs, and establish significant connections during the 10-day event.
He affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the event’s success, noting that significant measures have been put in place to avert any challenges.
The Deputy Governor highlighted Abia’s reputation as a safe and secure destination under Governor Alex Otti’s administration.
“Abia, as you know, has emerged as one of the safest and most secure destinations in the region following the determination of the Dr. Alex Otti administration to create a supportive environment for local businesses, visitors, and others who interact with the social and economic environment of the State,” Emetu said.
He assured that extensive security arrangements would be in place, including deploying personnel and infrastructure for round-the-clock operations at the fair venue.
“We are anticipating the influx of visitors, business people, and shoppers to Aba for the trade fair. We have therefore taken steps to guarantee effective security arrangements for everyone no matter what part of the town they are staying in,” he added.
He further assured participants of an “incident-free event,” emphasising that both national and local security organisations are working in synergy to maintain order throughout the fair.
To enhance convenience, the state government will provide free shuttle buses at strategic locations in the mornings and evenings to transport participants to and from the venue.
“This is one of the initiatives to make it easy for visitors to move about in safety and comfort in Aba,” Emetu disclosed.
Additionally, the government is collaborating with hoteliers and other hospitality businesses to offer discounted rates to visitors attending the trade fair. Further details on this initiative will be communicated in due course.
The Deputy Governor revealed that invitations have been extended to all 35 other state governments, the Federal Capital Territory, over 50 embassies and high commissions, various chambers of commerce across Nigeria, and more than 300 businesses, including manufacturers, importers, service providers, oil companies, and industrialists.
This outreach underscores the government’s intention to position Aba as a premier hub for commerce and innovation.
Engr. Emetu stated that the 2024 Aba International Trade Fair would go beyond commerce, as a symposium is being planned to discuss strategies for restoring Aba’s legacy as a historic land of opportunities.
“We shall discuss the restoration of Aba as a historic land of opportunities for all who dare to believe in the validity of their dreams,” he said.
With extensive security, welfare arrangements, and efforts to rebrand Aba’s narrative, the Deputy Governor expressed confidence in the trade fair becoming a landmark event for Abia State and its business community.
