Abia Sets Machinery in Motion For 2026 International Trade Fair, Inaugurates Planning Committee
The Abia State Government has formally inaugurated a 23-member planning committee to oversee preparations for the 3rd Abia International TradeFair scheduled for 2026.
The initiative underscores the state’s commitment to advancing commerce, attracting investment, and strengthening industrial growth across the region.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Chairman of the Committee and Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, emphasized the importance of thorough preparation and sustained collaboration with trade unions and business groups to ensure the success of the fair.
He charged members to view the assignment as a call to service and to leverage the platform to showcase Abia’s business potential to the world.
Engr. Emetu noted that the 2026 International Trade Fair will create opportunities for enterprises within and beyond Abia State to exhibit goods and services, attract investment, and establish long-term economic partnerships, thereby positioning the state as a hub for commerce and industry in Nigeria.
In her remarks, Dr. Mrs. Salome N. Obiukwu, Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, expressed appreciation to the state government for the confidence reposed in the committee. She stated that the blend of state and non-state actors, alongside the Chamber of Commerce, strategically positions the team to deliver a high-impact event that could become “the talk of the nation.” She stressed the need for dedication, teamwork, and sacrifice among members, and confirmed that the committee has been mandated to submit a detailed implementation plan within a stipulated timeframe.
“We are expected to deliver a trade fair that is impactful. Our task is clear, and we must bring our expertise together to achieve this goal,” she said.
The committee comprises senior government officials, private sector leaders, and key institutional representatives. It is chaired by Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, while Dr. Mrs. Salome N. Obiukwu will serve as the central coordinator of the committee’s activities.
Other appointed members include: Chief Nwaka Inem, President of the Aba Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, who also serves as Special Adviser on Trade and Commerce; High Chief I. N. Green Amakwe; Chief Cyril Nwigwe, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Commerce; representatives from the Ministry of Information and the Abia State Orientation Agency; Anumadu Uchenna, Director of Commerce; Esther Ekanem, Secretary; and Deacon Chidobe Ogbonna.
The committee further comprises Barr. Agbonna Ukobasi, Special Adviser on Ease of Doing Business; Ralph Ogenyi, State Coordinator, Nigeria Export Promotion Council; the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Trade and Commerce; Mrs. Lois Kelechi Abelogu, HOD/Director of Produce; Mrs. Sarah Uzochukwu; and Mr. Ben Nwankwo.
Chief Cyril Nwigwe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Commerce, described the assignment as a significant responsibility and commended the state government for its ongoing developmental strides. He expressed confidence in the committee’s capacity to deliver on its mandate.
The 3rd Abia International Trade Fair 2026 is projected to enhance the visibility of local enterprises, stimulate foreign and domestic investment, and reinforce the state’s economic competitiveness.
Amah Ijeoma
FIC Correspondent office of the Deputy Governor.
